Wines Champagne Frédéric Savart - Extra Brut Le Mesnil - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Frédéric Savart's Cuvée Extra Brut Le Mesnil 2022 is a Blanc de Blancs Champagne, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. Hailing from a prestigious site within the Champagne AOC, this cuvée is sourced from the renowned Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. The 2022 vintage benefited from a relatively warm year, offering expressive fruit while the Extra Brut dosage results in a Champagne of striking precision and freshness. The vinification is typically meticulous, with gentle extraction to preserve the delicate aromas, and partial or full fermentation in oak barrels for added complexity. The result is a wine that balances vibrant acidity with subtle creaminess, layered with notes of green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, and hints of toasted brioche, underscored by the distinctive chalky minerality characteristic of Le Mesnil.

The Champagne region lies to the northeast of France and is revered for its exceptional sparkling wines. Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, in the Côte des Blancs subregion, is particularly famous for Chardonnay production due to its chalk-rich soils and cool climate. These soils impart remarkable finesse and mineral purity to the wines, while the temperate climate ensures a lengthy growing season, encouraging slow ripening and preserving vibrant acidity. The area's history of meticulous single-parcel cultivation and tradition of grower-producers like Frédéric Savart means that every bottle is an authentic reflection of both terroir and artisan skill.

For culinary pairings, this Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs lends itself beautifully to delicately flavoured dishes. Classic matches include fresh oysters, scallop carpaccio, or sashimi, where the Champagne's minerality and lively acidity enhance the delicate seafood. For a regional touch, consider pairing with gougères (cheese puffs) or fine Chaource cheese from the area, which complements the subtle creaminess and toasted notes of the wine. It also shines with lightly dressed crab or smoked trout.

For ideal enjoyment, serve this Champagne well-chilled, between 8–10°C. Use a tulip-shaped glass to allow the delicate aromas to flourish and ensure the wine's complexity is fully appreciated. Allow the Champagne a few moments in the glass to open up before sipping, and savour its elegance slowly, ideally in good company.