The 2012 Blanc de Blancs Vintage from Champagne AR Lenoble is a "generous and indulgent" wine, born from a miraculous year. Exclusively sourced from the Grand Cru of Chouilly on the Côte des Blancs, this 100% Chardonnay has benefited from exceptional maturation for over 10 years in the cellar. Partially vinified in wood and very lightly dosed (Extra Brut), it reveals a perfect balance between the lively expression of the vintage and the natural freshness of the terroir. A great wine of patience, with pastry and toasted notes, reflecting the fabulous quality of the harvest.
The production of Blanc de Blancs 2012
This champagne is 100% Chardonnay from the Grand Cru terroir of Chouilly (Côte des Blancs). It is made exclusively from wines from the 2012 harvest.
A Vinification of Patience
Maison Lenoble prioritizes time and complexity:
- Vinification: Aged in vats and 20% in wood to bring structure and patina.
- Aging: Maturation for over 10 years in the safety of the house's cellars.
- Dosage: Extra Brut at 3 g/L, preserving the purity and energy of the wine.
The 2012 vintage
2012 is a vintage that borders on the miraculous. Despite initially unfavorable weather conditions, Champagne has probably achieved one of its greatest successes. Yields were low (half the usual amount), with small grapes, but harvested in perfect condition, without rot. The phenolic balance is excellent, offering what can only be described as fabulous quality.
Tasting of Lenoble's 2012 Blanc de Blancs
Color
The color, typical of a mature vintage, is a luminous gold with fine, regular effervescence.
Nose
The nose is very intense, blossoming with pastry notes. It then reveals delicate hints of toast, honey, and candied fruit (apricot). Aeration reveals nuances of fresh hazelnuts that enrich this complex bouquet.
Palate
On the palate, the expression is lively but perfectly harmonized with the typical freshness of a Blanc de Blancs. The flavorsof candied citrus fruits bring liveliness, combined with notes of anise and menthol. The finish remains lively, while being complemented by a delicately creamy texture.
Pairing suggestions
- Seafood puff pastry
- Brioche sausage
- Scallop carpaccio with truffles
- Fillet of turbot with saffron
- Poularde with morel mushrooms
- Braised sweetbreads
- Thin apricot tart
- Lemon meringue tart
- 24-month aged Comté cheese
Storage and serving tips
Aging potential
This 2012 vintage, already matured for over 10 years in the cellar, offers a remarkable tasting experience:
- 2025–2027: The wine is fully developed, with notes of pastries and candied fruit (phase of fullness).
- 2028–2030: It will become even smoother, developing notes of mocha and sweet spices (Evolution phase).
- Beyond 2030: Reserved for lovers of great mature vintages (complexity phase).
Serving suggestions
Serve this great vintage between 10°C and 12°C. A temperature that is too low would mask the richness of its honey and hazelnut aromas.
