Champagne Laherte Frres Petit Meslier NV (Base 20. Disg. Sep 2022)

Disgorged November 2022. Petit Meslier has formed an integral part of Aurlien Lahertes Les 7 cuve for almost 20 vintages. One of Champagnes heirloom varieties, Meslier is a historic cross between Gouais Blanc and Savagnin. Although it has been largely forgotten in Champagne, the Laherte family has remained attached to the grapes personality and its ability to retain acidity, even in warmer vintages. Between 2014 and 2018, Laherte established a mid-slope vineyard on Chavots clay/limestone soils, using massal cuttings from the domaines oldest Meslier vines.
This wine marks the third release of this exciting project. The grapes are pressed in Lahertes antique Coquard press, and the juice ferments naturally in old barrel. The wine ages for six months on lees in barrel and then a further 18 months sur lattes. This bottling is based on the 2020 vintage with 40% reserve wines and was disgorged by hand with just 2 g/L dosage (extra brut).
When Domaine Didier Dagueneau decided to craft a sparkling wine in Pouilly-Fum (yet to be released), Benjamin Dagueneau chose Petit Meslier as its hero. From the first glass, its clear why Laherte and Dagueneau have decided to put their faith in this unique, forgotten variety. Champagne thrill seekers should not hesitate.