Larmandier-Bernier Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Les Chemins d'Avize 2014 750ml

Disgorged in June 2021, Larmandier-Bernier’s 2014 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Les Chemins d’Avize is still tightly wound, unwinding in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, crisp yellow orchard fruit, almond paste, vanilla pod and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and complete, it’s deep and concentrated, with ripe but racy acids and a pretty pinpoint mousse, concluding with a long, chalky finish. This is a more charming, immediate rendition of this cuvée than its 2013 predecessor, but it will still reward at least a few years on cork. (William Kelley)

The 2014 Extra Brut Les Chemins d’Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and potent, the 2014 possesses tremendous density from start to finish. Apricot, spice, dried flowers, graphite and lemon confit all build in a Champagne of enormous resonance. The pedigree here is evident. Chemins d’Avize is a blend from the Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny lieux-dits. It was vinified in neutral oak and bottled with dosage of two grams per liter. Disgorged: June, 2021. (Antonio Galloni)