Simon Rion's 2020 Larmes de Meuniers is a signature champagne. Made exclusively from Pinot Meunier, it is a champagne that evolves with finesse and indulgence. Vinified in barrels with minimal dosage, this exclusive cuvée stands out for its purity and aromatic depth.
The production of Simon Rion's Larmes de Meuniers 2020 champagne
Larmes de Meuniers 2020 is a single-varietal cuvée made exclusively from Pinot Meunier grapes grown on a micro-plot in the "Noron" area of Courmas, in the Petite Montagne de Reims. This wine reflects the high standards and sensitivity of Simon Rion, a young winemaker representing the fourth generation of his family. Simon Rion has been working his soils without herbicides since 2017 to promote biodiversity.
The cuvée is made exclusively from Pinot Meunier, a grape variety typical of the clay-sand terroir of Courmas. This grape variety brings fruit and roundness.
The terroir
Courmas is a village nestled in the Petite Montagne de Reims, renowned for its clay-sand soils that give the Meuniers a full structure, delicate maturity, and a delicious texture. The "Noron" plot benefits from balanced exposure and well-drained soils, offering clean fruit and beautiful natural tension.
Vinification
The grapes are pressed in a traditional wooden Coquard press. The must is then transferred to 228-liter barrels, where it ferments spontaneously thanks to indigenous yeasts. Malolactic fermentation is carried out. The wine remains on its lees for 11 months without fining or filtration, then undergoes natural cold stabilization. After aging on slats for 24 months, it is disgorged in November 2023. The dosage is extremely low: 1 g/L. Production is confidential, as only 620 bottles were produced.
The 2020 vintage
2020 is a unique vintage, marked by the pandemic, but also by ideal weather conditions. A wet winter allowed the soils to recharge, followed by a dry and bright spring. Flowering was rapid and uniform, and the harvest took place at perfect maturity between September 1 and 8. The grapes had natural alcohol levels of around 12%, with good acidity and vibrant fruit. This vintage is synonymous with substance, balance, and freshness.
Tasting notes
Color
The Larmes de Meuniers 2020 has a pale golden yellow color, bright and lively with fine, regular effervescence.
Nose
The nose is rich and elegant, dominated by notes of stone fruit, white flowers and candied pear. Aromas of pastry, fresh hazelnut and damp chalk enrich the whole.
Palate
On the palate, the attack is silky and straightforward. The wine displays a fine, balanced texture, carried by a remarkable underlying freshness. The finish is long, sapid, slightly spicy, underscored by crisp fruit and mellow oak.
Food pairing
- Gougères with aged Comté cheese
- Confit onion tartlets
- Brunoise of mushrooms with parsley
- Pork tenderloin with herbs
- Roasted poultry and parsnip purée
- Brown mushroom risotto
- Thin mirabelle plum tart
- Almond cream and orange zest
- Pavlova with yellow fruits
Storing this champagne
The 2020 Larmes de Meuniers cuvée should be stored horizontally, away from light and at a constant temperature (42-54°F). As it does not come in a box, it is recommended that you store it away from UV light.
Aging potential
This cuvée, vinified in barrels and with a light dosage, can be kept until 2029. It will evolve elegantly, developing notes of dried fruit, sweet spices, and marzipan.
When to drink
Larmes de Meuniers 2020 is a cuvée with character and gastronomy. It is the perfect accompaniment to a hot starter, a white meat dish or a fruity dessert. An emotional champagne for lovers of artisanal Meunier.
