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standout eight-generation producer practising biodynamics for 20 years

about Pierre Larmandier began the move away from chemical farming in 1992, moving to biodynamics in 1999. 18ha are farmed in Côte des Blancs, 90% of it Chardonnay. Pierre and Sophie’s sons Arthur and Georges have now joined the team. To round out the style, the base wines are aged in large barrels for eleven months. There’s no filtration, and minimal dosage. The aim is to express the land as faithfully as possible.

wines tasted

Latitude Extra Brut NV ($65)

From vineyards at the same latitude south of Vertus. All Chardonnay, with 40% reserve wines, two years on the lees, and 4g/L dosage. First released in 2004, replacing Pierre’s “Tradition” which had been launched in the 1970s. A rich, round, and very satisfying introduction to the Larmandier-Bernier style, and to grower-champagne in general.

Longitude Premier Cru Extra Brut NV ($75)

From four villages on the same longitude: Vertus, Oger, Avize, and Cramant. All Chardonnay (it used to be labelled Blanc de Blancs), with 40% reserve wines, two years on the lees, and 3g/L dosage. A leaner, more linear move up from Latitude, and a very interesting side-by-side tasting.

website https://larmandier.fr/en/

email champange@larmandier.fr

phone +33 (0)3 26 52 13 24

address 19 avenue du Général de Gaulle, Vertus