July 24, 2024
The Unique Terroirs of Vertus: Home to Larmandier-Bernier
Vertus, a premier cru village in the Côte des Blancs region of Champagne, is renowned for its exceptional terroirs that contribute to some of the finest wines in the world. Among the esteemed producers in this village, Larmandier-Bernier stands out for its commitment to biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking. This article delves into the unique terroirs of Vertus and how they shape the distinctive character of Larmandier-Bernier Champagnes.
The Geographical and Climatic Landscape of Vertus
Vertus is located in the southern part of the Côte des Blancs, a region celebrated for its chalky soils, which are ideal for growing Chardonnay. The village's vineyards are situated on gently rolling slopes that provide excellent drainage, ensuring that the vines do not become waterlogged. This natural drainage is crucial for maintaining the health of the vines and the quality of the grapes.
The soil in Vertus is predominantly chalk, interspersed with clay and limestone. This unique composition contributes to the mineral character and finesse of the wines. The chalky soils reflect sunlight, helping to ripen the grapes and retain heat, which is beneficial in the cooler climate of Champagne.
Larmandier-Bernier: A Commitment to Terroir
Larmandier-Bernier is renowned for its dedication to biodynamic farming practices, which emphasize the health of the soil and the surrounding ecosystem. This approach involves avoiding synthetic chemicals and using natural preparations to enhance the vitality of the vineyards. By fostering a diverse and balanced ecosystem, Larmandier-Bernier ensures that their vines are resilient and expressive of their unique terroir. In the cellar, Larmandier-Bernier practices minimal intervention winemaking to allow the purest expression of the terroir. This means using indigenous yeasts for fermentation, avoiding unnecessary additives, and allowing the wines to age on their lees for extended periods. The result is a range of Champagnes that are both complex and transparent, reflecting the nuances of the Vertus terroir.
The Distinctive Cuvées of Terre de Vertus from Larmandier-Bernier
One of the standout cuvées from Larmandier-Bernier is the Terre de Vertus, a single-vineyard, single-varietal (Chardonnay), and non-dosage Champagne. This wine epitomizes the purity and minerality of the Vertus terroir. Each vintage of Terre de Vertus reveals a unique snapshot of the vineyard's character, influenced by the specific climatic conditions of that year.
The 2016 Terre de Vertus, for example, unwinds in the glass with aromas of citrus zest, crisp yellow orchard fruit, brioche, honeycomb, and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, it is bright and chiseled, with excellent depth at the core, racy acids, and a long, penetrating finish.