Champagne Extra Brut
Ludes Chardonnay

The Champagne Ludes Chardonnay by Arthur Lelièvre offers an unexpected perspective on the Montagne de Reims, giving voice to Chardonnay from Ludes, a Premier Cru village long associated above all with black grape varieties. A young vigneron of the new generation, Arthur took over the family vineyards on the cool, north-facing slopes of the cru, where marl and clay-limestone soils encourage slow ripening and a natural tension that has become the signature of his work. His approach in the vineyard is respectful and minimally interventionist, free from herbicides, with the aim of letting soil and vintage express themselves with the utmost sincerity in Champagnes of artisanal, measured and deeply territorial character.

This edition, based on the 2020 harvest, is a Blanc de Blancs made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes grown in the Premier Cru parcels of Ludes. Vinification and fermentation take place parcel by parcel with indigenous yeasts in 228 and 350 litre oak barrels, a choice that helps build structure and depth without overpowering the natural tension of the grape. After tirage, the wine ages on the lees for at least 30 months before dégorgement, while the final dosage of 1 g/l, in Extra Brut style, respects the essential and precise imprint that defines the entire range. Production in a limited run of 697 bottles, confirming the artisanal scale of the project.

On tasting, Ludes Chardonnay reveals a taut and luminous profile, with notes of citrus, white flowers and chalk accompanied by a subtle mineral texture. On the palate the entry is vertical and saline, supported by well-integrated freshness and a fine yet persistent structure, with the oak remaining in the background and leaving room for the clarity of the fruit. The finish is dry, balanced and of good length, delivering a Champagne of great precision and a clear Premier Cru identity.