Champagne Saint-Sauveur

Taking its name from the 11th century abbey of Saint Sauveur, the heart of the estate is an ancient monastic clos in the heart of Vertus in the Cotes des Blancs. Since 1886 it has been in the care of the Lordon family, whose roots as vine growers in the region reach back into the 18th century. Since 2008 there have been no chemical treatments of the soil, and the vines are farmed following organic and biodynamic principles. Meticulous in their attention to detail, each parcel is vinified separately before blending the different cuvées, primarily in stainless steel, but also in a number of foudres. After bottling each wine enjoys a minimum of five years ageing in the 18th century cellars dug deep into the chalk before release. Chardonnay has a privileged position with parcels in Grand Crus Oger, Avize and Premier Cru Vertus and the Blanc de Blancs is confident, mineral and bright. Frederic T, a blend of Chardonnay from Vertus with Pinots Noir and Meunier from Congy, shows a toastier, richer personality with 57% reserve wines. The Rosé is a blend of 65% Chardonnay and 23% Pinot Noir of which 12% is vinified red.