Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)

Generous and complex, with white blossoms, citrus confit, flaky pear pastry, honey, and almonds, with a refreshing, refined minerality and salinity at the finish. This is a stunning vintage, rich and expressive while showing great finesse. Still youthful. Produced from carefully tended, one-hectare plot on chalky hill in Reims. Vinified in barrels, no malolactic fermentation. Disgorged December 2022 with 4 grams per liter of dosage. 6768 bottles produced.

Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)

Clos Lanson is unusual for making a vintage every year because this 1ha pure Chardonnay plot is in a warm, early-ripening location. Even visually it looks wonderfully bright, greengage/pale silver in colour, with a silky texture and fresh aromatics of apricot blossom and citrus zest. On the palate, you get quince, apricot pit, stone fruits, citrus, white truffle and honeysuckle, just gorgeous layers with grip, tension, and a natural richness that allows them to keep dosage on the low side. Full of generosity and finesse, this will easily last at least another decade. As it opens, walnut, frangipane and flaky pastry notes appear, and it grips on. First time on the Place for this wine. Tasted twice. Winemaker Hervé Dantan. 3g/l dosage, disgorged May 2022, so this will benefit from another year in bottle. They are releasing the 2009 before the cooler 2008 vintage. Vinified in Agonne-forest barrels (the only Lanson cuvée to do so), no new oak, 12 years ageing in cellars.

Jancis Robinson (17+)

The first time that Larmandier-Bernier has made this wine. 100% Pinot Noir from old vines in Vertus. Spontaneous vinification in old vats and casks, 11 months on lees. Tirage end of July 2016. Six years sur lattes. Dosage 0 g/l. Baked sour cream, smoke and bay leaf. A powerful, bone-structured rigidity. Fennel and chalk dust and bitter rain and baobab. Pretty uncompromising. Tastes like a glacial waterfall. Maritime. No curves, no corners – a cliff face of a wine.

Vinous (94)

The 2012 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize is another powerful, deep wine that needs time in the glass to be at its best. In fact, the 2012 was not really fully expressive until it had been opened for about 24 hours. There is an inherent depth to the 2012 that just needs time to emerge. With air, the 2012 is broad and expansive, with the layers of fruit intensity and tension that are such signatures of Pierre and Sophie Larmandier's very best wines. What a gorgeous Champagne this is. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2018.

Vinous (97)

The 2013 Extra Brut Les Chemins d'Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is floral and gracious, much more so than is common in Avize Champagnes, which tend to have more body. The 2013 is beautifully perfumed and ethereal from start to finish, with striking beams of salinity that confer tension. Candied lemon peel, white flowers, spice, hazelnut, dried flowers and chamomile are some of the many notes that are laced together. This subtle, wonderfully nuanced Champagne has so much to offer. It is the most restrained wine in this range. The Chemins d'Avize is a blend of fruit from Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny, done in neutral oak. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: October, 2019.

Vinous (95)

The 2014 Extra Brut Les Chemins d"Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and potent, the 2014 possesses tremendous density from start to finish. Apricot, spice, dried flowers, graphite and lemon confit all build in a Champagne of enormous resonance. The pedigree here is evident. Chemins d"Avize is a blend from the Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny lieux-dits. It was vinified in neutral oak and bottled with dosage of two grams per liter. Disgorged: June, 2021.

The Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015 is a remarkable addition to any finewine collection. Produced by the revered Larmandier-Bernier house, nestled in the prestigious Champagne region of France, this exceptional Grand Cru embodies supreme eloquence. Crafted entirely from Chardonnay grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in Avize, the 2015 vintage boasts an ethereal blend of minerality, acidity and lingering citrus notes.

Aged in oak barrels and bio-dynamically farmed, the wine encapsulates harmonious precision, exhibiting years of masterful expertise. Its extra brut nature, denoting minimal dosage, allows for unblemished expression of terroir. The harvest of 2015 only deepens this wine's allure, offering an impactful taste profile that compels with every sip. Such complexity attaches distinguished character to the Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015, securing its rightful place in the pantheon of extraordinary champagnes. A testament to the unerring pursuit of excellence by Larmandier-Bernier.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)

The NV (2022) Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Latitude 1er Cru is stellar in this range. Broad and ample, the Latitude is so impressive. Lemon confit, marzipan, tangerine peel, mint and chalk are dialed up. More than anything else, I am so impressed with the wine's sheer palate presence. There's gorgeous density and character here. This release is based on 2022, with the addition of 40% reserve wines. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: September 2024; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)

The NV (2022) Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Latitude 1er Cru is stellar in this range. Broad and ample, the Latitude is so impressive. Lemon confit, marzipan, tangerine peel, mint and chalk are dialed up. More than anything else, I am so impressed with the wine's sheer palate presence. There's gorgeous density and character here. This release is based on 2022, with the addition of 40% reserve wines. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: September 2024; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)

The NV (2021) Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Longitude 1er Cru shows the lighter, airier side of the year. Crushed rocks, lemon peel, white pepper, slate and chalk all confer brightness. This sculpted, saline Blanc de Blancs is impeccable. The Longitude is a blend of parcels in Vertus, Cramant, Avize and Oger. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: April 2024; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)

The NV (2021) Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Longitude 1er Cru shows the lighter, airier side of the year. Crushed rocks, lemon peel, white pepper, slate and chalk all confer brightness. This sculpted, saline Blanc de Blancs is impeccable. The Longitude is a blend of parcels in Vertus, Cramant, Avize and Oger. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: April 2024; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Emanating from the prestigious terroirs of Vertus, the lavish Larmandier-Bernier Rose de Maturation 2014 is directly synonymous with sophistication. The long-standing Larmandier-Bernier estate, nestled snugly in the heart of Champagne, France, is the nurturing cradle of this artisanal gem. Drawing upon biodynamic viticulture, each grape is bequeathed an intensely natural profundity. The result? An exquisite Rose that dexterously balances robust fullness and refreshing vivacity.

The masterstroke lies in the meticulous maturation - a bold step away from the traditional dosage method. This wine is aged for an extensive four years, undeniably lending an additional complexity. Amassed with concentrated fruit notes, the Larmandier-Bernier Rose de Maturation 2014 is exquisitely coupled with well-integrated acidity that ensures a stunning, luscious finish.

Its precious rarity, the signature, minimalistic Larmandier-Bernier sophistication, and the innovative maverick maturation method truly reverberate with every optimistic sip. Larmandier-Bernier Rose de Maturation 2014 is nothing short of an exceptional treat for the discerning oenophile.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)

The NV (2021) Rosé de Saignée is laced with cranberry, orange peel, cinnamon and dried flowers. It's a gorgeous, seductive Rosé, a Champagne that deftly marries the textural richness that was once such a focus in this bottling with the greater sense of vibrancy that informs today's wines. Clean mineral accents shape the deceptively understated finish. The blend is 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Gris, an unusual combination that works quite well here. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2024; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.

Vinous (92)

We commenced with champagne, courtesy of the 2014 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Terre de Vertus from Larmandier-Bernier, which undergoes at least five years’ aging on the lees without any dosage and features a light pétillance. The bouquet requires two or three minutes to find its groove, eventually offering enticing scents of white peach and almond; a hint of lemon sherbet comes through with time. It is elegant and displays commendable weight (not a Zen-like champagne). A crisp sour lemon note lends sufficient tension toward the finish. Beautiful.

Vinous (92)

We commenced with champagne, courtesy of the 2014 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Terre de Vertus from Larmandier-Bernier, which undergoes at least five years’ aging on the lees without any dosage and features a light pétillance. The bouquet requires two or three minutes to find its groove, eventually offering enticing scents of white peach and almond; a hint of lemon sherbet comes through with time. It is elegant and displays commendable weight (not a Zen-like champagne). A crisp sour lemon note lends sufficient tension toward the finish. Beautiful.

Vinous (92)

The 2015 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Terre de Vertus 1er Cru is a brilliant wine that combines textural richness and energy. The aromatics are a bit muted today, but that should not be an issue in a few months. All the 2015 needs is time. The Terre de Vertus is a blend of parcels in the Barillers and Faucherests lieux-dits. As always, the Terre de Vertus is vinified in neutral oak of various sizes. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: April, 2021.

Vinous (92)

The 2015 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Terre de Vertus 1er Cru is a brilliant wine that combines textural richness and energy. The aromatics are a bit muted today, but that should not be an issue in a few months. All the 2015 needs is time. The Terre de Vertus is a blend of parcels in the Barillers and Faucherests lieux-dits. As always, the Terre de Vertus is vinified in neutral oak of various sizes. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: April, 2021.

Vinous (96)

The 2016 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Terre de Vertus 1er Cru is fabulous. Comprised of 100% Chardonnay from two mid-slope parcels in Vertus, it is perfumed and exotic, with striking aromatics. This cuvée straddles the line between still and sparkling wine. Lime, mint, white pepper and chalk lend tons of high-toned character. The 2016 is really quite compelling. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: November 1, 2023.

Wine Advocate (96)

Disgorged in June 2018, the 2010 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant offers up a bright and detailed bouquet of citrus oil, flowers, white peach, warm bread and a delicate top note of walnut oil that's less pronounced than its delicately oxidative 2009 counterpart. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, broad and satiny, with considerable concentration and old-vine extract, concluding with a long and saline finish.

Wine Advocate (97)

I'm increasingly convinced that Pierre Larmandier produced Champagne's wines of the vintage this year, and the 2011 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant only compounds that suspicion. Unfurling in the glass with a deep and complex nose of citrus zest, crisp yellow apples, smoke, warm bread, mandarin oil and oyster shell, it's full-bodied and fleshy but incisive, with huge concentration, bright acids and a long, intensely saline finish. Totally transcending the reputation of 2011, it has many of the textural properties of a great white Burgundy, married with the cut and chalky grip of Champagne's Côte de Blancs.

Steeped in luxury, the Larmandier Bernier Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru 2012 is a stunning display of skill from Larmandier Bernier, a noteworthy Champagne producer. Drawing from old vines at Côte des Blancs, this wine embodies the terroir's chalky essence. Committed to biodynamic principle, the Larmandier family meticulously cultivates this single-varietal Chardonnay without artificial interference. Harvested manually, it undergoes natural fermentation and prolonged lees aging, contributing to its rich complexity.

The outcome? The Larmandier Bernier Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru 2012 exhibits sumptuous flavours. Lush notes of ripe citrus, baked apple, and almond mix with a mellow undercurrent of brioche, elegantly housed within a refined mineral structure. The wine’s potent acidity beautifully underpins this symphony of flavours, while the finish persists with a lingering finesse. Give this extraordinary Champagne the appreciation it deserves and add Larmandier Bernier Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru 2012 to your collection today.

Jeb Dunnuck (97)

The 2013 Champagne Vieille Vigne Du Levant takes things to the next level at Larmandier-Bernier. I love the aromatics, which flaunt the subtle and pretty of this cold vintage. Pouring a bright yellow color, it reveals detailed floral and candied citrus aromas in its notes of lemon drop candy, honeysuckle, and almond croissant. Medium to full-bodied, this is the most complete wine I have tasted today from this house, with a refined mousse and seamless acidity, and it only sees 2 grams per liter of dosage. This remarkable wine is drinking fantastically now and will have a long life ahead over the next decades. It’s long on the palate and a memorable wine.

Jeb Dunnuck (97)

The 2013 Champagne Vieille Vigne Du Levant takes things to the next level at Larmandier-Bernier. I love the aromatics, which flaunt the subtle and pretty of this cold vintage. Pouring a bright yellow color, it reveals detailed floral and candied citrus aromas in its notes of lemon drop candy, honeysuckle, and almond croissant. Medium to full-bodied, this is the most complete wine I have tasted today from this house, with a refined mousse and seamless acidity, and it only sees 2 grams per liter of dosage. This remarkable wine is drinking fantastically now and will have a long life ahead over the next decades. It’s long on the palate and a memorable wine.

Jancis Robinson (18.5)

It’s an almost indescribable wine. It’s rich and smoky and broad and powerful but it’s also none of those things. There is fruit and spice and stones but you couldn’t pick them out if you tried. It’s utterly complete. Without beginning, without ending. It has a heartbeat, a drum, a rhythm that feels like a pulse. It’s a wine that leaves you scrambling for words and then giving up, to simply breathe it in.