Champagne Lanson’s Black Label Brut: The Epitome of Elegance in Every Sip
The Basics
- Origin: Champagne, France
- Grape Varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- Alcohol Content: 12.5%
- Aging Process: Aged for a minimum of 3 years on lees
- Price Point: Approximately $40 – $50 per bottle
- Availability: Widely available in specialty wine stores and online
- Producer: Champagne Lanson
Tasting Notes
Appearance
The wine pours a radiant, straw-yellow color with a delicate, persistent perlage that animates the glass.
Nose
The aromatic profile is complex, opening with notes of green apple, lemon curd, fermented figs, and a touch of brioche. As it breathes, secondary aromas of almond, praline, honey, and white flowers dipped in white chocolate, evolve, lending depth and nuance.
Palate
On the palate, Le Black Label Brut is well-balanced, expressing a harmonious blend of acidity, minerality, and fruitiness. The mousse is fine and elegant, providing a creamy texture. Flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear are complemented by undertones of toast and vanilla, leading to a medium-plus finish that exhibits excellent sufficient.
Structure
The Champagne offers a well-structured mouthfeel, with a linear acidity that cuts through the creaminess, making it highly versatile in food pairings. Good, but not great.
Food Pairing
This Brut champagne pairs exquisitely with light appetizers, seafood, or oysters, but it can also elevate a simple roasted chicken or even a dessert like a lemon tart.
Price
Approximately $40 – $50 per bottle.
Conclusion
Le Black Label Brut from Champagne Lanson is a remarkably consistent and well-crafted wine, embodying the sophistication that one expects from a premium Champagne. It is suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to formal events.
About the Winery
Champagne Lanson is one of the oldest Champagne houses, founded in 1760. They are known for not using malolactic fermentation, which results in a Champagne with the ability to age gracefully while retaining its intrinsic acidity and freshness.
Technical Information
- Harvest Method: Hand-harvested
- Fermentation: Traditional method, non-malolactic fermentation
- Soil Type: Chalky and limestone soils, typical of the Champagne region