2005 Georges Laval Les Chenes Blanc de Blanc

The 2005 Brut Nature Les Chenes, 100% Chardonnay, is fantastic. Time in bottle has fleshed out the 2005 beautifully without robbing it of its essential cut and pure verve. Lemon, crushed rocks and spices are some of the many notes that are layered together in this gorgeous, complex Champagne. The 2005 spent ten months in oak followed by four years in bottle. Dosage was 2 grams per liter. Disgorged April 1, 2010.

The 2005 Brut Nature Millésime Les Chênes, 100% Chardonnay, is fantastic. Time in bottle has fleshed out the 2005 beautifully without robbing it of its essential cut and pure verve. Lemon, crushed rocks and spices are some of the many notes that are layered together in this gorgeous, complex Champagne. The 2005 spent ten months in oak followed by four years in bottle. Dosage was 2 grams per liter. Disgorged April 1, 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. Tucked away off a narrow side street in Cumières, Laval is one of the most fascinating small domaines in Champagne. The wines are unique and at times a bit eccentric, yet also compelling. They also have a very devout following, judging by how quickly the bottles disappear from the market. Total production is about 10,000 bottles from 2.5 hectares of vines, some of which also provide fruit to other growers. Vincent Laval practices organic farming, which he believes encourages vine systems go work their way deep into the soil for nourishment. Laval shows visitors two vines hanging on his wall, one that was farmed conventionally, the other organically, to prove his point. Importer: Transatlantic Bubbles, Orange, CT; tel. (203) 795-5050