PierrePetersL’EspritBlancdeBlancsGrandCru2017

Pierre Péters, one of Champagne’s most renowned growers, produces mostly Blanc de Blancs champagnes, which arerated as some of the finest produced in the region. The Domaine is based in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger consisting of 82 plots over nearly 20 hectares of sustainably-managed vineyards, sixteen of which lie within the Côte des Blancs, primarily in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, as well as the other prized villages of Avize, Cramant, Oger and Vertus. Sixth-generation owner, Rodolphe Péters took over the running of the family estate from his father, François in 2008, having been involved in the assemblage since 2000. He initiated the house’s ‘perpetual reserveâ€?of reserve wines in the late 1990s. A graduate in oenology and business, Rodolphe believes that “a good winemaker must listen to his raw materials,â€?practising minimal intervention both the winery and the vineyards. L’Esprit is made using fruit which comes from four single vineyards located in Le Mesnil, Oger, Cramant and Avize.rrWeather in 2017: The year was marked by spring frosts in April, followed by very hot weather at the end of May and June. The month of August was not very sunny, with rain throughout the month, followed by warmth and good weather at the end of August for the harvest. With damp conditions the Pinot Noir & Meunier grapes were at huge risk and only small batches of Pinot Noir were picked and free from rot. Although 2017 won’t be widely declared, some individual successes will exist, several iconic prestige cuvée Blanc de Blancs were made, including Taittinger Comtes de Champagne and Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. In addition Dom Perignon 2017 exists, with a significantly higher percentage of chardonnay in the blend as there was limited Pinot Noir.rrTechnical Information:rVineyards: 100% Grand cru | Le Mesnil, Oger, Cramant and AvizerGrape Varieties: 100% ChardonnayrWinemaker: Rodolphe PétersrLees Ageing: 4 yearsrDosage: 5g/lrDisgorged: February 2022rDrink: Now to 2028rrTasting Note: Luminous pale gold. On the nose, delicate floral notes interlace with dried fruits, citrus and almond. There is a soft mineral influence that adds both complexity and elegance. The palate is well-balanced and stylishly elegant, with delicate notes of lemon and stone fruit, tangerine and toasted bread. The finish is persistent with candied citrus flavors and a chalky minerality that adds a twist of salinity.