Simon Rion's 2020 Larmes de Pinot Noir is a confidential champagne, imbued with elegance and finesse. Made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes grown on a micro-plot in Courmas, it reveals a precise and refined expression of this grape variety. Vinified in barrels, with minimal dosage, this cuvée reflects all of Simon Rion's expertise and sensitivity.
The production of Simon Rion's Larmes de Pinot Noir 2020
Larmes de Pinot Noir 2020 is a single-varietal cuvée made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes harvested from the "Maréchaudes" plot in Courmas, in the Petite Montagne de Reims. Simon Rion cultivates his vines using sustainable methods, without herbicides since 2017, focusing on soil work and respect for microbial life. His goal is to allow the terroir to express itself fully.
The cuvée is made exclusively from Pinot Noir, a noble grape variety from the clay-limestone terroir of Courmas. Here, this grape variety offers a delicate, fleshy and intensely floral expression.
The terroir
The village of Courmas, located in the Petite Montagne de Reims, is characterized by its clay-limestone soils, which are particularly favorable to the development of Pinot Noir. The "Maréchaudes" plot is an island of purity, perfectly drained, which gives the grapes beautiful ripeness and balanced natural freshness.
Vinification
The grapes are pressed in a traditional wooden Coquard press. The must is transferred to 228-liter oak barrels for natural fermentation on indigenous yeasts. Malolactic fermentation is carried out. The wine is then aged for 11 months on its lees, without fining or filtration, before undergoing natural cold stabilization. It is then aged on slats for at least 24 months before disgorging in November 2023. The dosage is very low: 1 g/L. Production is limited to just 597 bottles.
The 2020 vintage
2020 is a vintage of balance and intensity. After a generous winter rainfall, the spring was dry and sunny, allowing for rapid and uniform flowering. The harvest, carried out between September 1 and 8, yielded perfectly ripe grapes with beautiful natural acidity. The Pinot Noir expresses itself with density, precision and freshness, supported by vibrant fruit and a noble texture.
Tasting notes
Color
The Larmes de Pinot Noir 2020 has a deep golden yellow color with coppery highlights. The effervescence is fine and dynamic.
Nose
The nose is generous and deep, carried by notes of white cherry, dried flowers, and blond tobacco. With aeration, hints of sweet spices, orange zest, and melted wood appear.
Palate
The palate is full-bodied and textured, marked by a round and flavorful attack. The mid-palate is delicately woody, balanced by an underlying tension. The finish is slender, indulgent, and persistent.
Serving suggestions
- Mushroom puff pastries
- Foie gras cromesquis
- Mini parmesan tartlets
- Duck breast with cranberries
- Roasted free-range poultry
- Risotto with pumpkin and smoked bacon
- Poached pear in red wine
- Almond tart with figs
- Black cherry clafoutis
Storing this champagne
The 2020 Larmes de Pinot Noir cuvée should be stored horizontally, away from light, in a cool place with no temperature fluctuations.
Aging potential
Thanks to its structure and controlled aging, this cuvée can be kept until 2029. It will gain complexity, developing aromas of candied fruit, licorice, and roasted almonds.
When to drink
Larmes de Pinot Noir 2020 is a champagne with character and substance, perfect for an autumn meal, a refined dinner, or a tasting among connoisseurs. It will seduce you with its depth and delicious complexity.
