Champagne Nicolas Maillart Montchenot Premier Cru 2020

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant. The ninth generation of a family of winemakers, Nicolas Maillart is considered one of Champagne’s most innovative producers. He took over the family estate in the village of Ecueil in 2003 and today manages around 15 hectares of vineyards located in Écueil, Villers-Allerand, and Bouzy, in the Montagne de Reims. Montchenot Premier Cru is a 100% Pinot Noir champagne, with grapes from three plots located in the village of Villers-Allerand-Montchenot, on the border between the two subregions of the Grande Montagne de Reims and the Petite Montagne de Reims. The plots were located on the same hill, where the vines benefit from Thanetian marl and limestone soils and an eastern exposure. Vinification takes place in oak barrels and the wine ages on the lees for 8 months. The result is a rich, powerful, and expressive wine with a pale and bright golden color and a broad and fragrant aromatic profile. On the nose, the wine reveals notes of citrus, green apple, and white peach, followed by hints of brioche and toasted almond. On the palate, it is broad and fruity with a creamy texture and a long and slightly mineral finish. It is an excellent match for grilled fish, or seafood.