| Brand | Vilmart & Cie |
| Appellation | Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Oak Treatment | French Oak |
| Aging | more than 18 months / 12.5% abv |
| Total Varietal Composition % | 80% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Noir |
Product details
Vilmart & Cie, an esteemed grower-producer in Rilly-la-Montagne, embodies the essence of artisanal Champagne with its commitment to sustainability and expressive terroir. The Grand Cellier d’Or Brut 1er Cru 2020 is composed of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir harvested manually from 50-year-old Premier Cru vines. With certifications in Viticulture Durable and Haute Valeur Environnementale, the estate tends its vineyards with deep respect for the environment. Vinification unfolds with a meticulous ten months in 228-liter oak barrels, followed by forty-two months of aging on lees in the cellars. Notably, the cuvée undergoes no malolactic fermentation, preserving its freshness and tension. A dosage of 7 grams per liter lends balance and finesse to the final wine.
In the glass, the golden yellow hue shimmers with fine, elegant effervescence, forming a silvery-white bead. The nose opens delicately on dried apricot and candied pear, then evolves into a striking bouquet of white flowers, toasted almonds, and honey. On the palate, the attack is vibrant and precise, leading into layered flavors of white peach, baked apple, and almond paste. This Champagne balances roundness with a lively tension, culminating in a long finish of dried fruit and sweet spices. Its mature, textured profile makes it an exceptional partner for luxurious pairings: serve alongside caviar, firm-textured seafood such as langoustines, or white meats accompanied by rich, reduced sauces to fully showcase its complexity and vitality.
