Sparkling Wines Unspecified Damien-Buffet - L'élixir

Viniou Reviews

Damien-Buffet's Cuvée L'élixir Premier Cru is a non-vintage Champagne that beautifully showcases the house’s meticulous blending expertise. Composed of the traditional grape varieties of Champagne – usually Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, though the exact blend for this cuvée is not specified – this wine is crafted in the brut style, guaranteeing freshness and vibrancy with a refined, dry finish. The "Premier Cru" distinction indicates that the grapes originate from highly rated vineyards, ensuring depth and quality. Careful vinification, often involving both stainless steel and oak barrels, allows for the development of delicate bubbles and a nuanced aromatic profile, typically displaying notes of orchard fruit, citrus, white flowers and a discreet toasty character gained from extended lees ageing.

The Champagne region, in north-eastern France, is world-renowned not only for its eponymous sparkling wines but for its unique terroir. The cool continental climate, with its marginal grape-ripening conditions, contributes to the wines' pronouced acidity and finesse. Soils here are predominantly chalky, especially in Premier Cru sites, providing excellent drainage and imparting a trademark minerality. Historically, Champagne has been a symbol of celebration, its effervescence captivating wine lovers worldwide. The region’s centuries-old expertise, combined with strict regulations, ensures a consistent level of excellence, especially in classified bottlings such as this one.

For food pairings, this Champagne is extremely versatile. Its crispness and delicate mousse make it a wonderful companion to classic French starters like gougères or seafood tartare. Shellfish, particularly oysters or prawns, are beautifully complemented by its freshness. For a regional touch, try pairing it with a Chaource or Langres cheese from the Champagne area. It also suits lighter poultry dishes or sushi, where its acidity balances rich textures.

Ideally, serve Damien-Buffet Cuvée L'élixir Premier Cru well-chilled, between 8-10°C. This temperature highlights the fineness of the bubbles and allows the wine’s aromatic complexity to shine. Use tall, tulip-shaped glasses rather than flutes to appreciate its bouquet and enjoy the wine’s full spectrum of flavours.