Tasting Notes
Disgorged May 2021. 100% old vine Pinot Meunier. Les Vignes d’Autrefois (the vines of another time) is made from a single four-tonne press of grapes from old vines planted between 1947 and 1964 that grow in several chalky terroirs in Chavot and Mancy. The sites in Chavot (La Potote and Les Rouges Maisons), sit on deep clay and silt soils, with a presence of flint and small stones. In Mancy are Les Hautes Norgeailles and Les Bas Putroux, where the vines are rooted in clay soils over chalk. The viticulture at these sites is entirely biodynamic. As well as referencing the age of the vines, the name also refers to the fact that these vines are all massale selections (i.e. non-clonal). There is even a soupçon of ungrafted vine material scattered throughout these vineyards.
Aurélien uses old Burgundy barrels for the aging (including some sourced from Montille and Leroux) and there was no malo. All-up the wine was aged for seven months in barrel followed by 30 months on lees in bottle. The very low dosage of three grams per litre allows the iodine minerality of these chalky terroirs to sing through. Emblematic of the quality being achieved at Laherte today, and reflecting the tension and low-yield intensity of the fruit, this offers wonderful balance between penetrating, spicy and fleshy red jube fruit and salty, racy deliciousness. One of the great Meunier bottlings. We’re also loving cherry blossom label this year. - Importer Note
Laherte Frères is a grower-producer based in Chavot, just south of Épernay, with a family history dating back to 1889. Today the estate is run by Aurélien Laherte, representing the seventh generation, who has elevated the domaine into one of Champagne’s most respected artisanal houses. The family farms around 10 hectares across the Côteaux Sud d’Épernay, Vallée de la Marne and Côte des Blancs, working primarily with Chardonnay, Meunier and Pinot Noir.
Viticulture is organic and increasingly biodynamic, with meticulous attention paid to vineyard health and soil vitality. In the cellar, Aurélien favours native fermentations, partial ageing in oak, and low dosage, crafting Champagnes that are expressive, terroir-driven and full of energy. The range spans crystalline blanc de blancs, precise single-parcel bottlings and Meunier-focused cuvées that highlight the diversity of their holdings.
Laherte Frères has become renowned for its purity, vibrancy and individuality, embodying the new generation of Champagne growers who combine tradition with a fearless, thoughtful approach to innovation.
| Product Type | Wine Sparkling Champagne |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | France |
| Region | Champagne |
| Sub Region | Epernay |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |