Philipponnat's Cuvée 1522 Vintage 2019 is a vibrant tribute to the House's history, whose roots in Aÿ date back to the 16th century. Crafted from a rigorous selection of the estate's finest grapes, this cuvée is distinguished by a predominance of Pinot Noir from the historic "Le Léon" vineyard. It is a gastronomic champagne par excellence, combining remarkable mineral tension with deep aromatic complexity, magnified by extended aging and a minimalist dosage.
The Production of Cuvée 1522
This cuvée is the result of masterful winemaking, aimed at highlighting the power of the Pinot Noirs while preserving a crystalline freshness.
A Work of Precision and Patience
- Blend: 77% Pinot Noir and 23% Chardonnay.
- Vinification: 20% of the wines are aged in oak. To preserve all the freshness and gain complexity, 43% of the blend does not undergo malolactic fermentation.
- Aging: A six-year rest on lees in the cellar enhances the cuvée while preserving its original energy.
- Dosage: Extra-Brut at just 4.25 g/l—one-third of the typical Champagne dosage—for total purity.
The Terroir
The terroir of this cuvée is exceptional: the Pinot Noir comes from the historic “Le Léon” vineyard in Ay, as well as from Mailly and Verzy. The Chardonnay comes from the prestigious village of Mesnil-sur-Oger, providing the mineral tension necessary for the overall balance.
The 2019 Vintage
The year 2019 has gone down in history as an exceptional vintage. After a winter that alternated between mild and cool weather, the summer saw record-breaking temperatures during two intense heat waves. These sunny conditions, combined with cool nights as harvest approached, allowed for exceptional ripening of the grapes. Harvested at Philipponnat between September 11 and 21, the musts revealed a harmonious balance between acidity and sugar, offering rare aromatic concentration and remarkable health.
Charles Philipponnat, who currently heads the house, oversees the winemaking process and is the guardian of the Philipponnat style. The entire winemaking process takes place in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, where the house is located, near the Clos des Goisses.
Tasting of the 2019 Philipponnat Cuvée 1522
Color
The color is a luminous pale gold, elegantly accented by delicate golden highlights.
Nose
The initial nose is highly elegant, marked by subtle iodine notes. Upon aeration, the bouquet gains intensity with aromas of black fruits dominated by blackcurrant and blackberry, before lingering into a slightly smoky finish.
Palate
The attack is fresh, driven by a beautiful mineral tension. Flavors of wild blackberry come through with precision, accompanied by spicy notes such as Timut pepper. The delicately smoky finish offers remarkable length.
Food Pairing Suggestions
- Premium caviar
- Seafood platter
- Sashimi of premium fish
- Roast capon with gravy
- Spicy Indian Tandoori Chicken
- Poached turbot fillet with beurre blanc
- 24-month-aged Comté
- Aged Brie de Meaux
- Avoid sweet desserts (opt for cheese instead)
Storage and Serving Tips
Aging potential
After optimal cellar aging, Cuvée 1522 possesses a structure built to last a decade:
- 2026–2028: The wine is in its phase of purity and mineral tension.
- 2029–2033: The texture becomes rounder and the aromatic complexity deepens (Phase of fullness).
- Beyond 2035: Development of deep tertiary notes for lovers of mature wines.
Serving Suggestions
As an aperitif, serve this champagne at around 8–9°C. To accompany a meal, serve at 10–12°C to avoid masking its fullness and spicy character.
