Louis Roederer Collection 244 Brut Champagne

What to expect - The new signature blend of Champagne Louis Roederer - Fresh, rich and elegant brut - 42% Chardonnay, 36% Pinot Noir and 22% Pinot Meunier Collection 242 is a 100% biodynamic brut champagne, made with 56% of 2017 base wine. It is the 242nd blend of the house since its establishment in 1776. Louis Roederer is blurring the lines between vintage and non-vintage champagne as each year, the house will release their brut champagne with a new name and a different base wine. Following Collection 242 and its 2017 base wine will be Collection 243 with a 2018 base wine. By adding 34% of perpetuelle reserve and 10% of Roederer reserve wine aged in oak, the house is able to maintain freshness that is reminiscent of the vintage Blanc de blancs. The wine displays vividly fresh fruit and is highly expressive on the nose. There is a defined minerality showing the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims terroirs combined with white florals, citrus zest and a distinct chalkiness. The palate is both generous and bracing, with Chardonnay taking the lead in profile. We love the interplay between ripe lemon, Williams pear and red apple, amidst that chalky-toasty backdrop of reserve wines. The flavours persist long after the first sip. Quality speaks for itself. Technical details Collection 242 is a blend of: 56% 2017 Base wine 34% Perpetual reserve (a mix of 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 vintages) 10% Reserve wine aged in oak (signature of Louis Roederer) 8g/L dosage. 3 years ageing.   About the house This house has serious pedigree and a long history of making outstanding wines. Roederer is still family owned and run and has a significant land holding of over 230 hectares allowing them to supply 70% of their grape requirements with excellent fruit. We are impressed by Louis Roederer’s increasing commitment to exploring biodynamics both with treatment of their vast vineyard holdings plus the recent acquisition of a 15 hectare biodynamic parcel from Leclerc Briant. A relatively small 3 million bottles per annum of production are exported, largely to the USA. Food pairing Finesse and power are juxtaposed in this stunning cuvee. Enjoy this wine on its own or serve with an almond crusted halibut fish drizzled with a garlic and lemon sauce.