The Fins Lieux No. 5 Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru 2016 cuvée from Champagne Péhu Simonet is a Blanc de Blancs of rare precision. It is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes grown on the prestigious chalky terroir of Mesnil-sur-Oger. A vibrant champagne with remarkable saline energy, designed for aging and gastronomy.
The production of Champagne Péhu Simonet Fins Lieux No. 5 Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru 2016
This single vineyard cuvée is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes from Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru. The aim of this cuvée is to convey the Péhu Simonet style on a terroir other than the Montagne de Reims, its usual playground. David Péhu wanted to express the integrity and minerality of the chalky terroir through natural vinification, partly in oak, with great precision.
- The Chardonnay (100%) brings freshness, brightness, and mineral complexity.
The terroir
The vines of Mesnil-sur-Oger, classified as Grand Cru, are deeply rooted in pure Campanian chalk. This unique soil, combined with a western exposure offering gentle sunshine at the end of the day, gives the grapes maturity and tension. Viticulture follows the principles of organic farming and agroforestry, promoting biodiversity and soil health. This approach produces balanced, concentrated grapes that are full of energy.
Vinification
The wines are vinified in the traditional way, partly in stainless steel vats to preserve aromatic purity, and in old barrels to add complexity and richness. The wine is aged on fine lees for several years before bottling. Partial malolactic fermentation brings a silky texture without altering the wine's tension. The final dosage, which is very low (Extra Brut), highlights the integrity of the terroir and the balance of the vintage.
The 2016 vintage
The 2016 vintage experienced contrasting weather conditions: a wet spring followed by a hot, dry summer. This alternation favored concentrated, ripe but balanced grapes. In Mesnil-sur-Oger, the chalk played an essential role in restoring freshness and minerality. This vintage produces powerful and precise wines, where Chardonnay expresses notes of ripe citrus, apricot, and white flowers, carried by a salty and pure structure.
Tasting notes
Color
Pale golden yellow with luminous highlights. Fine, regular effervescence. The brilliance evokes the chalky purity and precision of Mesnil Chardonnay.
Nose
Subtle and elegant, with aromasof fresh citrus (lemon, grapefruit), green apple, andapricot. Hints of honey, white flowers, and a touch of minerality complete this refined bouquet.
Palate
Lively and precise attack. Silky texture balanced by beautiful acidity. Aromas of candied citrus, white fruit, and wet chalk. The long, crystalline finish combines freshness and salinity with great elegance.
Food pairing
This Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is perfect for seafood dishes. Its liveliness and elegance pair well with delicate textures.
- Fine oysters
- Sea bream tartare with lime
- Comté cheese gougères
- Pan-fried scallops
- Fillet of sole with lemon butter
- Roasted poultry with clear gravy
- Lemon meringue pie
- Poached peaches with verbena
- Apple with honey and almonds
Storage and serving
How to store this cuvée
Store the Fins Lieux No. 5 Mesnil-sur-Oger 2016 vintage in a cool, dark cellar at 10–12°C with a humidity of around 70%. Thanks to its balance between tension and richness, it will evolve harmoniously towards notes of hazelnut, salted butter, and dried fruit. This cuvée can be stored for 8 to 15 years depending on the format and storage conditions.
Aging potential
Optimal window: 2025–2040. Between 2025 and 2030, the wine expresses the freshness of Chardonnay and its citrus notes. From 2031 to 2038, it rounds out with hints of honey and almond. From 2039 onwards, the texture becomes caressing and the minerality expresses itself with nobility and persistence.
How to serve Fins Lieux n°5 2016?
We recommend serving Fins Lieux n°5 2016 at 9–10°C in slender tulip glasses. A light aeration of 5 minutes will reveal the full aromatic complexity of the Grand Cru Chardonnay. This champagne expresses itself fully at the table, particularly with seafood or delicately roasted poultry.
