J.L. Denois

Tradition Extra Brut Crémant

Good Crémant is often lauded as a less expensive alternative to Champagne but while this is true, the more important project is to create a crémant of place and substance that does not seek to replicate or outshine Champagne but rather to introduce its own terroir in its own rite. This, indeed, is what Jean-Louis Denois has done with his sparkling wines. It is this wine that lead us to this exciting domaine, a tautly balanced traditional method Limoux that demanded attention. Inventive in its blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and a 10% kick of Chenin Blanc, the estate's organically tended vineyards in the Haute Vallée de l'Aude clearly benefit from an ideal climate. Thanks to their altitude and the proximity of the Pyrenees, the berries are perfectly balanced between acidity and fruit. No need for chaptalization or acidification, it is the precise harvest date that is decisive for a perfect balance and here Jean-Louis's years of expertise honed in his Champagne homeland, his education in Beaune, and his working travels in California, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa have all culminated in this life long project of proving Limoux's viability for world-class bubbles. The palate shows white fruit, almondy frangipane, nectarine, and salted pineapple, a harmonious, dry, elegant, and joyfully fruit oriented wine. Then the finish saunters in with notes of hazelnut, red berries, and toasted bread.