Caillez-Lemaire Reflets Extra-Brut Champagne NV

Founders Raymond and Andrée were considered rebels at the time of the establishment of their Champagne label in 1942.  As the children of growers, older generations expected them to follow suit and sell fruit from their combined two hectares to the highest bidding of the large Champagne houses.  It was quite a break in tradition as their families had grown and sold since the 18th century.  Yet Raymond and Andrée quietly persisted, working side by side for over 30 years developing the Caillez-Lemaire brand and passing it down to their son, Henri, in 1976.  Since then, this grower Champagne label has adapted to the times, with each generation making its mark, whether it be growing the vineyard holdings or transitioning to organic practices.  Now in its 4th generation since embarking on wine production, Caillez-Lemaire presents its flagship bottling, “Reflets” (reflections in English), which expertly blends fruit from the five villages in their holdings.

Pinot Meunier dominates the Reflets cuvee, with Pinot Noir in 2nd and Chardonnay in 3rd.  The supremacy of Pinot Meunier in the blend echoes its significance in the Vallée de la Marne, where the five Caillez-Lemaire vineyards lie.  Due to the frost-prone topography that traps cold air in the valley, 61% of the vines planted in Vallée de la Marne are Pinot Meunier.  Pinot Meunier ripens earlier than Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, allowing for harvest before colder Fall temperatures prevail.  Historically, the grape has been prized for its blending abilities with soft texture and fruit aromas but has come in third place to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  Geographically, Vallée de la Marne is the largest sub-region of Champagne.  With its propensity for Pinot Meunier, growers in the region traditionally have been workhorses for large houses.  In recent years, small producers like Caillez-Lemaire have proven that Pinot Meunier dominant blends match quality and are as captivating as conventional Champagne blends.

Freshness reigns supreme in the Reflets blend with a clean, vibrant acidity highlighting the white flower and citrus aromas.  The extra-brut Champagne sees only 5g/L dosage and no malolactic fermentation, allowing the fruit’s characteristics to shine.  A delicate mineral, chalky tone on the palate melds with flavors of membrillo and apple tarts that linger on the long, lively finish.