WTN: Lamandier-Bernier Champagne Blanc de Blancs 'Vertus'

Prior to a recent visit to Sam's in Chicago, Jean charged me with procuring a few bottles of Champagne to bolster our holdings. Ever the dutiful spouse, I returned with a half dozen bottles, most of which fit the technical definition (and two bottles of NV Foreau Vouvray Mousseux). Tonight we had some friends over for dinner and started the evening with:

NV Larmandier-Bernier Blanc de Blancs 'Vertus'
nose: subtle toasty, leesy notes, apple and lemon
palate: rich mouthfeel, fine mousse, great balance

We had a bottle of this when recently in NYC and Jean loved it. Tonight's return to it didn't diminish our appreciation of it at all. This wine does receive a modest dosage, as opposed to this producers "Terre de Vertus" non-dosage cuvée, which Sam's also carried.

Mark Lipton

I love this stuff. So mineral.

I love this stuff. So mineral.

I agree with your sentiment, but after several years of drinking Muscadets, "mineral" isn't the first descriptor that comes to mind with this wine. There's no much else going on, though, that it's academic.

Mark Lipton

"mineral" isn't the first descriptor that comes to mind with this wine.

What is the first descriptor that comes to mind?

For me, it would be "austere" - meant only in the best way, of course..

I really like this wine.

From my (Australian) experience with this maker, it's hit or miss. The bottle variation we've (from a tasting group perspective, multiple occasions and different labels from this maker) have extracted high praise to utter condemnation. Not a producer I have any confidence in, just at the moment but am prepared to admit some bottles can be quite brilliant.