This is “blanc des blancs” 100% Chardonnay champagne, exploding with effervescence and sumptuous notes of lemon zest, orchard fruits, and chalk. It is a mineral-dominated champagne, known for its purity of fruit and clean character. The fruits came exclusively from Grand Cru plots within the Côtes des Blancs, where the soils are rich in minerals - particularly chalk.
The Delamotte family’s career in wine-making dates all the way back to the Enlightenment, when the champagne house was established in Reims, by François Delamotte. In 1988, Delamotte was acquired by the Laurent-Perrier group, becoming a sister winery with Salon, a legendary champagne house in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Much like Delamotte, Salon is famed among champagne purists for its authenticity and has only ever created 1 wine. These days, the 2 wineries are interlinked - on years where Salon does not produce a wine, the grapes are transported to the neighbouring Delamotte winery, where they can be used to create an equally delicious champagne - such as this one.
On the palate, the Delamotte Brut begins with a visceral, dry attack, packed with minerality. This soon melts into a velvety and fruity mid-palate, bringing notes of lemon, lime, green apple skin and pear. It was aged on the lees for 5 years before disgorgement, adding layers of texture and a delightfully yeasty mouthfeel. It’s an amazing wine for a wide variety of occasions, and will be delicious alongside cheese croquettes, nutty cheeses, or when simply served as an aperitif.