Thiénot

La Vigne aux Gamins 2011 | Bottle 75cl

Champagne Thiénot's 2011 La Vigne aux Gamins cuvée perfectly illustrates the expression of a Chardonnay from the great Champagne terroir. Made exclusively from Grand Cru grapes, this vintage cuvée highlights the elegance, tension, and complexity of Chardonnay vinified here without malolactic fermentation. The result is a subtle and straightforward brut champagne with great length on the palate and remarkable aging potential.

The production of La Vigne aux Gamins 2011

Maison Thiénot produces this cuvée with respect for the identity of Chardonnay and its terroir of origin. Each vintage is designed to reflect the uniqueness of a year and reveal the imprint of the grape variety when vinified by plot and aged for a long time.

The terroir

The grapes come exclusively from Grand Cru classified vineyards located on the Côte des Blancs, the cradle of Champagne Chardonnay. This chalky terroir gives the wine a characteristic mineral tension, great aromatic finesse, and extended aging potential.

Vinification

La Vigne aux Gamins 2011 is a 100% Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic fermentation in order to preserve the natural acidity and freshness of the grape variety. After bottling in September 2012, the cuvée rested for 11 years in the cellars of Maison Thiénot, benefiting from prolonged aging on fine lees, which refined its structure and enriched its bouquet. The dosage is particularly low, only 2 g/L, making it a very pure and tense brut champagne. Disgorging took place in March 2023.

The 2011 vintage

The year 2011 in Champagne was marked by contrasting weather conditions: a very warm spring, followed by a cooler summer punctuated by rainy spells. These variations required particular attention to the vines and the timing of the harvest. Thanks to rigorous selection, the Chardonnay from the Grands Crus offered balanced juices, combining beautiful maturity and preserved acidity. The 2011 vintage of La Vigne aux Gamins is characterized by its aromatic finesse and great precision.

Tasting notes

• Color

  The color is pale gold with subtle green highlights, reflecting the freshness and preserved youthfulness of the Chardonnay despite its long aging.

• Nose

  The nose is expressive and delicate. It opens with aromas of fresh citrus fruits, dominated by lemon, enriched with floral and slightly brioche notes. A mineral and chalky touch underscores the overall elegance.

• Palate

  The palate is distinguished by its balance and purity. The attack is taut and lively, carried by flavors of lemon, pear, and white fruits. The texture is silky, enriched by 11 years of aging on lees. The finish is long and persistent, expressing beautiful minerality and chiseled freshness.

Food pairing suggestions

Refined starters

• Sea bream tartare with citrus fruits
• Fine oysters from the salt marshes
• Scallop carpaccio

Main courses

• Fillet of sole with lemon butter
• Bresse chicken with morel mushrooms
• Creamy asparagus risotto

Desserts

• Citrus pavlova
• Lemon meringue pie
• Light vanilla soufflé

Storage and serving tips

Storing this champagne

La Vigne aux Gamins 2011 should be stored in a dark, quiet, cool cellar at a stable temperature of 10 to 12°C. Bottles should be stored horizontally to maintain the seal of the cork and promote harmonious development.

Ageing potential

Thanks to its vinification without malolactic fermentation and its long aging on lees, this cuvée has an aging potential of 15 to 20 years. Over time, it will develop more complex aromas of honey, dried fruit, and brioche, while preserving its structuring freshness.

Serving suggestions

Serve this champagne at a temperature of 46 to 48°F in suitable white wine glasses. It is best enjoyed as an aperitif but also pairs well with gourmet dishes. Decanting is not necessary but can be considered to reveal its full aromatic complexity.