Mineral 2016 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru (2016) - Agrapart Pascal

Agrapart is one of the benchmark maisons for artisan terroir Champagne. Mineral comes from old vines in the Grand Crus of Avize and Cramant, their roots deep in the chalky soils that give the wine extraordinary purity and tension.

The appellation: Champagne AOC Grand Cru

Champagne AOC Grand Cru represents the absolute pinnacle of Champagne, designating wines produced exclusively in the 17 villages classified as Grand Cru, the highest level in the quality scale of the Champagne AOC appellation.

What to eat with Mineral 2016 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Who makes it: Agrapart Pascal

Agrapart Pascal is one of the most respected houses of the Côte des Blancs, a symbol of small-scale production that respects the terroir. Founded at the end of the 800s, the estate is today run by Pascal Agrapart, who has raised the quality of his Champagnes through a natural, low-intervention approach. The winery's philosophy is based on:Sustainable, organic viticulture, with particular attention to soil biodiversity. Plot-by-plot winemaking, to bring out the different nuances of the terroir. Exclusive use of indigenous yeasts, to guarantee the fullest expression of the grapes.

The vine of Mineral 2016 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most widely planted and prestigious white grape varieties in the world, originally from Burgundy, in France. Thanks to its great adaptability to different climates and soils, Chardonnay is grown in many wine regions, expressing unique characteristics according to the terroir and the winemaking style.

Mineral 2016 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru: the terroir of the Côte des Blancs

Climate: Continental

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Mineral 2016 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Primary aromas: Citrus (lemon, citron), green apple, white flowers

Secondary aromas: Fresh almond, bread crust, butter

Tertiary aromas: Chalky mineral notes, delicate spices

Tasting notes: An elegant, taut Champagne, with an extraordinary mineral expression typical of the chalky soils of the Côte des Blancs. The nose offers citrus and white flowers, along with a subtle toastiness. The palate is vibrant, with sharp acidity and a fine, persistent bead. The finish is long, saline and complex.