Leclerc Briant Champagne Leclerc Briant Blanc de Meuniers Millésime 2016

Leclerc Briant is a trailblazing Champagne house producing wines of singular energy and nerve. Lucien Leclerc founded the winery with four hectares of vineyards in Cumières in 1872. The business moved to Épernay in 1955 when Bertrand Leclerc married Jacqueline Briant and formed the négociant firm which still carries their name. Leclerc Briant was an early adopter of organic practices beginning in the 1960’s and was one of the first to bottle single-vineyard Champagnes starting in the 1970’s. In the late 1980’s, Bertrand and Jacqueline’s son, Pascal, began integrating biodynamic principles and part of the production has been Demeter certified since 2003. Today, enologist Hervé Jestin continues the legacy of this visionary house.

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Pinot Meunier is a versatile and often underappreciated grape variety that plays a crucial role in the production of Champagne. As one of the three main grape varieties used in Champagne blends, alongside Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier contributes a unique set of characteristics to the final product. Wines made from Pinot Meunier are known for their fruity and approachable nature, with vibrant notes of red berries, orchard fruits, and sometimes even floral hints. These wines tend to be soft and round on the palate, with moderate acidity and a slightly fuller body compared to other sparkling wines. The grape's ability to ripen earlier and more consistently than Pinot Noir makes it a valuable component in creating balanced and harmonious Champagne, especially in cooler vintages.

In addition to its role in sparkling wines, Pinot Meunier is increasingly being recognized for its potential as a varietal still wine. As a standalone varietal, Pinot Meunier wines exhibit a distinctive character marked by expressive fruitiness and a plush texture. They often show a delightful mix of strawberry, raspberry, and plum flavors, coupled with earthy undertones and a hint of spice. The wines are typically medium-bodied with smooth tannins, making them approachable and food-friendly. Though less common than its more famous relatives, Pinot Meunier still wines are gaining popularity for their unique profile and versatility, offering wine enthusiasts a fresh and interesting alternative to more traditional red and sparkling wines.

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