40% Pinot Noir, 60% Pinot Meunier. Picking is done entirely by hand, traditionally in the middle to end September. 30% reserve wines are used. Pressing is done in 4000 kg or 8000 kg presses, and after an initial settling of the must, fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats at controlled temperature. Blending is normally carried out early in the year following the harvest, and the first bottling is completed by April. Residual sugar = 10-12g/l. Aged in chalk cellars for 30 months. This Blanc de Noirs has been produced for Sainsbury's for over 20 years by the SCA des Producteurs des Grands Terroirs de la Champagne. This producer, founded over fifty years ago, owns through its members, much of the finest Pinot noir vineyards around Reims. Winemaker ~ Jérôme Bouby. Its consistent quality means it is often a medal winner, however this year it scooped the IWC 2009 Great Value Sparkling Wine Award as well as the Great Value Champion Sparkling Trophy, IWC 2009 - Silver, DWWA 2009 - Bronze.
Very appealing nose at this time of day. Like baking. Full flavoured and biscuity with a little residual sugar evident. Seems almost off-dry, after the St Veran. Lasts well.
Available now, 605 stores, exclusive, cork 12%
14/10/2009

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