Champagne Montagne de Reims N°2 – Blanc de Blancs 2021 from Champagne Vincent Cuillier is an Extra-Brut champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. It comes from the Villers-Marmery area, in the heart of the Montagne de Reims. This 2021 vintage highlights a precise interpretation of the grape variety, with a blend of wines aged 10% in barrels and 90% in vats. This distribution provides measured micro-oxygenation and a richer texture, while preserving the wine's integrity. The final dosage is set at 2 g/L to maintain the balance between freshness, purity, and complexity.
Production of Champagne Montagne de Reims N°2 Blanc de Blancs 2021
The Montagne de Reims N°2 cuvée is all about precision. Each stage of production seeks to bring out the clear expression of Chardonnay. The work in the cellar is based on a double vinification process. The final blend aims for a pure and clear profile, without excessive oakiness.
Origin of the grapes
The Chardonnay grapes come from the village of Villers-Marmery. The vines are located on well-exposed hillsides. The soils are very calcareous with sandier horizons depending on the plot. This configuration brings aromatic finesse. The grapes are selected in the vineyard and carefully sorted. The aim is to bring healthy, ripe and balanced grapes to the winery.
Aging
After fermentation, the wines remain on fine lees for several months. Only a small portion is aged in wood. This is designed to produce a precise Blanc de Blancs with a mineral structure and silky texture. Bottling takes place after natural stabilization. Aging on racks continues until a fine, integrated bubble is obtained.
Dosage and bottling
During disgorging, the wine receives a liqueur d'expédition calibrated at 2 g/L. The style remains Extra-Brut. This choice highlights the freshness of the Chardonnay. It also enhances the aromatic frankness of the 2021 vintage. After dosage, a resting phase is observed. This allows for homogenization and integration of the balances.
The 2021 vintage
The 2021 vintage requires precision in managing ripeness. The harvest yielded aromatic grapes with clear acidity. In this context, mixed barrel/tank aging played a decisive role. The small proportion aged in wood brought volume and smoothness. The majority aged in vats preserved the backbone of the wine. The result is a straightforward, energetic, yet enveloping champagne.
Tasting notes
Color
Bright pale yellow with silvery highlights. The effervescence is fine and regular. The cordon is persistent and forms a delicate thread.
Nose
Initial nose of fresh fruit: apple, pear, citrus. With aeration, white flowers, a touch of zest and a hint of biscuit emerge. The woody notes remain subtle, adding a hint of vanilla and hazelnut.
Palate
Clean and taut attack. The mid-palate becomes denser with a silky texture. Micro-oxygenation in the barrel rounds out the edges without masking the structure. Flavorsof citrus, white fruit, and a touch of chalk lead the tasting. The finish is long, fresh, and slightly salty. The dosage of 2 g/L gives a dry and precise sensation.
Food and Champagne pairings
- Special open sea oysters
- Sea bream tartare with lemon
- White asparagus, light mousseline sauce
- Fillet of sole with white butter sauce
- Poached free-range chicken, light cream
- Green asparagus risotto, Parmesan cheese
- 12-month Comté
- Fresh goat cheese
- Mild Tomme
Storage and serving tips
Temperature and glass
Serve between 10 and 12°C. Use a curved white wine glass. This shape promotes the release of aromas and helps the bubbles to last. Avoid serving at temperatures that are too cold, as this will numb the palate.
Opening
Open the bottle a few minutes before serving. Decanting is not necessary. Gentle aeration in the glass is sufficient to reveal the floral notes and light biscuit aroma from the barrel.
Storage
Store horizontally, away from light. Stable temperature 10–12°C. Avoid vibrations and sudden changes in temperature. The wine evolves harmoniously thanks to its very low dosage.
Ageing potential
Montagne de Reims N°2 Blanc de Blancs 2021 can be stored for 4 to 6 years in good conditions. The palate will become more unctuous. The bouquet will evolve towards almond, fine brioche, and a more assertive salinity.
