Our new grower champagne – Olivier Pere Et Fils Brut Cuvee Origine is a a delicious and classic example of why the French buy good grower champagnes rather than the Grand Marques – and incidentally the Oliviers sell half their grapes to Pol Roger which is considerably more expensive!
The hugely talented Olivier family farm their 11 hectare Domaine on the right bank of the River Marne just downstream from Epernay. Their vineyards are on the steep, free-draining, south-facing slopes of the commune of Trélou-sur-Marne. The estate was created in 1910, and is now run by the fourth generation, brothers Bertrand and Julien. They believe in crisp, fresh, low dosage champagnes with complexity and character arising from extended ageing on the lees prior to disgorgement.
‘Cuvée Origine’ is a blend of 80% Pinot Meunier, 10% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay with a long aging on leese (4 years) and dosage of 8g/l. This is complex and already well developed Champagne, while keeping its freshness and balance. It is pretty and creamy on the palate, with small, persistent bubbles and a full, rounded, long finish
