Lahert Frères are seventh-generation growers with small plots in ten different Champagne villages. The current frères are Thierry and Christian, whose father, Michel, was the first to bottle Champagne under the family name. Farming is organic and/or biodynamic, depending on the plot. The Ultratradition bottling is 60% pinot meunier, 30% chardonnay that doesn't go through malolactic fermentation, and 10% pinot noir, with 60% 2015 vintage and 40% reserve wines from the two previous harvests. The base wines are fermented and aged in a combination of used Burgundy barrels and stainless steel vats. 4.5g/L dosage - i.e. veeeery dry. The wine balances chalky minerality with generous orchard fruits and a touch of spice. There’s no better party starter (holiday or otherwise), but don’t hesitate to bring it to the dinner table as well: Soft cheeses, Dungeness crab, fried foods, and just about any other savory dish tastes even nicer with Champagne.
