Pommery’s Legacy: Unveiling the Exquisite 150th Anniversary Dry Champagne
Pommery’s Pioneering Spirit: The Birth of Dry Champagne
In 1874, a pivotal moment in the world of Champagne unfolded, led by the visionary Madame Louise Pommery of the esteemed Pommery maison. She directed cellar masters Olivier Damas and Victor Lambert to create a dry style of traditional method sparkling wine, aimed at highlighting the inherent quality of the fruit.
Nearly 150 years later, Pommery celebrates this legacy with its latest creation, Pommery 150, an extra brut blanc de blancs cuvée. Crafted from Chardonnay grapes selected from plots cherished by Madame Pommery, this Champagne is a testament to her foresight and influence.
Clément Pierlot: Continuing the Legacy
Pommery’s current cellar master, Clément Pierlot, continues the work of Damas and Lambert. He shared the intricate process behind blending this special anniversary Champagne, “In 2016, we set aside our plans for vintages, focusing instead on exceptional vats from prestigious growths to create Cuvée 150. This blend is our homage to Madame Pommery’s ingenuity, born from extensive research into the House’s historic vineyards.”
A Journey Through Champagne’s Heartland
The blending process began in the estate’s Clos Pompadour in Reims, where the Chardonnays contribute unique complexity and texture. The blend then incorporates distinct elements from Verzy and Verzenay in the Montagne de Reims, adding structure and tension. Contributions from Trépail enhance the cuvée’s freshness and minerality, while Villers-Marmery adds finesse.
The journey continues through the Grande Vallée de la Marne to Dizy, offering a balanced blend of elegance and smoothness. In the Côte des Blancs, the terroirs of Chouilly, Cramant, Avize, and Oger contribute vivacity, aromatic charm, and distinct minerality, rounding out the blend’s character.
This exquisite wine spent six years maturing on the lees before its final disgorgement, gaining depth and complexity.
Julien Lonneux, UK CEO of Vranken Pommery, highlights the revolutionary impact of Madame Pommery’s invention of brut Champagne. This shift to a drier taste not only spurred Champagne’s popularity in the UK but also dramatically increased its export.
Limited Release: A Collector’s Dream
Priced at £145, only 10,000 bottles of this unique cuvée will be available, making it a coveted addition to any collection. Its tasting notes include vibrant kaffir lime and the warmth of candied ginger.
