Champagne Leclerc Briant "Réserve" Extra Brut, Champagne, France NV

FROM LECLERC BRIANT:

THE WINE: 42% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Meunier. The bold style and impeccable quality of Réserve Extra Brut is evident in the balance between vinosity, richness and a waft of delicate acidity with an intense iodine-like purity.

THE PRODUCER: Founded in the village of Cumières in 1872 by Lucien Leclerc, the business moved, in 1955, to the premises it still occupies today in Chemin de la Chaude Ruelle in Epernay. It was also at this time, thanks to the dynamism of Bertrand Leclerc, the great grandson of the founder, and of his wife Jacqueline Briant, that the estate-based business changed its status to that of a Maison de Negoce or trading house.

In 2012 Leclerc Briant was saved from oblivion when it was acquired by Mark Nunelly and Denise Dupré, an American couple who are great enthusiasts of the French "art de vivre" and who fell in love with the nonconformist character of the House. They are joined by Frédéric Zeimett, a native of Champagne, who since then has led the House to the marches of Champagne codes, serving the expression of a unique style that is now internationally recognized.