Christophe Dechannes Millesime 2014

Champagne Christophe Dechannes is found in the town of Les Riceys in the heart of the Côte de Bar, the largest and the most southernly of the Champagne sub-regions. Their 9 hectares is made up of predominantly Pinot Noir vines (92%), but with a small special 0.5ha of Chardonnay which being so close to Chablis, benefits from the same Kimmeridgian soils. Vine age is between 20 and 60 years old. But make no mistake, they are a small Champagne House, making around just 30,000 bottles a year, across a total of 6 cuvées.

100% hand harvested hand. Slow, whole bunch press (for about 3 and a half hours). Settling and fermentation in thermo-regulated SST. Racked 2 months after fermentation. Cold filtration in January before blending in February. Second fermentation in bottle in April before being left to age on lees for 5 to 6 years. Disgorgement, corking and dosage (10g/l)

Coming up to 10 years old and drinking fantastically well. Golden apple, pear &, a gentle smokiness on the nose. Yoghurt, brioche and raisin coming through from the extended lees aging.