N.V. Diebolt-Vallois "Tradition" Brut, Champagne, France (750ml)   

About the Icons
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The Diebolt and Vallois families have a distinguished history in the Côte des Blancs. The Vallois family has been growing vines in Cuis since the 15th century; the grandfather of current proprietor Jacques Diebolt began making estate bottled champagne at the beginning of the 20th century.

Champagne Diebolt-Vallois was created in 1960, when Jacques married Nadia Vallois and incorporated some of the vineyard holdings that belonged to the Vallois family into the Diebolt estate. Diebolt-Vallois champagnes are the result of a united family: Jacques Diebolt and Nadia Vallois are helped by their two children, Arnaud and Isabelle, and now own 13 ha of vineyard holdings, spread over the villages of Cramant, Chouilly, Cuis, Oger and Épernay and purchase the remainder of their grapes from another branch of the Vallois family. Cramant is the first 100% Grand Cru village you come to when you enter the Côte des Blancs from the direction of Épernay. The Diebolt-Vallois champagne vines are mainly found in the southern part of Cramant, on the way to the village of Avize. The soil consists of a layer of light earth over a chalk subsoil; the East-Southeast facing slopes suit Chardonnay particularly well, and produce champagnes which simultaneously show fruit, power and a rich texture. The Chardonnay for this Blanc de Blancs was harvested, pressed and then fermented in thermostatically controlled vats. The wine the saw a dosage of approximately 7g/L, the final assemblage is a blend of wines from two vintages, the result of which is a delightfully balanced and layered example of Blanc de Blancs. Pale golden robe with a pungent yet refined nose comprised of spring flowers, caraway seed, citrus peel and fresh apple. Brisk and pure yet creamy, with penetrating apple and citrus flavors, great finesse, a lovely chalky minerality, light frothy mousse and exquisite, floral finish.