2014 Louis Roederer, Brut Vintage

2014 was a growing season of sharp contrasts. The spring was sunny and dry and ended with a heatwave in June; summer was autumnal, cool and rainy; September was hot, sunny and very dry – weather one would usually associate with the month of August. The key to the vintage lay in the soils as well as in the work carried out by the winegrowers. The good drainage properties of the chalk on the lower-middle part of the hillside helped greatly by allowing the excess water from the summer to drain away, which limited any excess vigour in the vines. These factors were complemented by Roederer`s increasingly eco-friendly, and ever-conscientious viticultural practices, which allowed them to take their quest for grapes of perfect balance even further.

The blend in 2014 is 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, with 25% of the wine vinified in oak tuns with weekly bâtonnage (stirring by hand); it underwent 20% malolactic fermentation. It aged for four years in the Louis Roederer cellars, and was left for six months after disgorgement to attain optimal maturity. Dosage is 8g/l.

Aromas are intense and deep, recalling yellow peach, redcurrant, with hints of spice, cocoa beans and smoke. Palate is broad, fruity and densely concentrated, with velvety texture, thanks to the silky smooth bubbles. This is followed by the energy of the limestone freshness and attractively delicate, smoky notes. The flavours linger in the mouth, the finish being gentle and uplifting.