Champagne Leclerc Briant in Epernay is one of the few biodynamic champagnes that exist. The house was owned by the family Leclerc Briant until recently. In 2012 it was sold to Frédéric Zeimett, originally from Champagne. He has worked for Champagne Moët & Chandon for 23 years, but he also has a worked in the Rhone Valley and the Loire Valley.
The bottles now have a new label that gives the champagne a more modern look, but the philosophy is the same. The new owner is not doing any radical changes. He will continue being biodynamic. The house currently has 7 hectares of its own and buys additional grapes from a dozen hand-picked growers who, of course, also grow their grapes biodynamically.
Champagne Leclerc Briant recently released its Brut 2006, a blanc de noir made of 77% Pinot Noir and 25% Pinot Meunier . The style is a little different compared to most other champagnes. It is slightly oxidized and has a pleasant nutty flavour. It is a savoury champagne that appeals to those who do not want their champagnes streamlined. The dosage is low.
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