Dhondt-Grellet 'Dans un Premier Temps' Extra Brut, Champagne, France NV

Founded in 1986, Champagne Dhondt-Grellet is a small, family-run estate that has gained international recognition under Adrien Dhondt’s stewardship. Adrien champions a terroir-driven approach, farming organically and embracing biodynamic principles to highlight the distinct personalities of his vineyard holdings across the Côte des Blancs and Vallée de la Marne. The ‘Dans un Premier Temps’ cuvée is the domaine’s flagship bottling, designed to express the character of all six hectares of estate vineyards.

• WINEMAKER: Adrien Dhondt
• FARMING: Organic and biodynamic practices (not certified)
• VARIETY: 50% Chardonnay (Sézanne), 30% Pinot Noir (Avenay Val d’Or), 20% Pinot Meunier (Cuis)
• TERROIR: Sourced from six hectares across Sézanne, Cuis, and Avenay Val d’Or, with vines averaging 45 years old. The Chardonnay is from Sézanne, the Pinot Noir from Avenay Val d’Or in the Vallée de la Marne, and the Pinot Meunier from old vines in Cuis.
• VINIFICATION: Chardonnay is partially fermented in barrel (50%) and tank (50%), while the Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are fermented in tank. The cuvée is composed of 70% base vintage with the remainder coming from a perpetual reserve started in 1986. In the coming years, all vins clairs will be barrel-fermented.
• AGING: Extended lees aging; dosage between 2g/L and 2.5g/L.
• TASTING NOTES: Elegant and precise, with notes of orchard fruit, citrus zest, toasted almonds, and white flowers. A mineral-driven palate with bright acidity and a long, saline finish.
• FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with oysters, caviar, fried dishes, or creamy cheeses.
• SCORES:
  • Vinous (Antonio Galloni): 92 points
  • Wine Advocate: 92 points
  • James Suckling: 93 points