The Mareuil-sur-Aÿ cuvée from Philipponnat is part of a collection of three rare cuvées, each from a single vineyard. It is a champagne that develops notes of citrus, hazelnut, and ripe fruit.
It is made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
For this 2006 vintage, the blended parcels are Valofroy, Les Côtes, Montin, Carrière d'Athis, and Croix Blanche.
Half of the Mareuil-sur-Aÿ 2006 cuvée is vinified in stainless steel vats and half in wood. Malolactic fermentation is carried out for the part produced in stainless steel vats in order to slightly round out the wine.
Its dosage is Extra-Brut (4.5 g/l) in order to maintain the balance between freshness and vinosity.
This champagne has been aged for seven years in the cellars of Philipponnat in order to develop its secondary and tertiary aromas, signs of prolonged aging on fine lees.
The Mareuil-sur-Aÿ 2006 cuvée has a golden color and fine, regular bubbles.
This champagne offers a very expressive nose, evoking citrus fruits and ripe fruit, but also a slight smoky touch. After a few moments, the champagne evolves towards hazelnut aromas, with a subtly spicy and peppery touch.
On the palate, it is an elegant, full-bodied wine with a fruity expression. The fruity aromas linger, supported by a supple tannic structure.
This champagne is best enjoyed with shellfish, crustaceans, or white meat.
