2016 Larmandier-Bernier, Champagne 1er Cru "Terre de Vertus" Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature

Pierre and Sophie Larmandier pull fruit for their “Terre de Vertus” cuvée exclusively from “Les Barillers,” a mid-slope parcel in the Premier Cru Côte des Blancs village of Vertus that has been vinified separately since 1995. What makes this terroir extraordinary is its distinctive personality—simultaneously delicate and saline, yet rich. The balance is so effortless that Pierre never feels the need to blend it with other parcels. This is 100% Chardonnay from a single terroir and single vintage, expressing pure Côte des Blancs character. The Larmandier family's commitment to biodynamic viticulture isn't driven by fashion, but rather conviction, since 1999. Their 35-year-old vines (some dating back 50-70 years in Cramant) are cultivated without synthetic fertilizers, allowing the roots to probe deep into the chalk subsoil that defines the Côte des Blancs. Pierre's winemaking philosophy mirrors his farming: indigenous yeasts only, separate vinification for each cru, and zero dosage for c