Champagne Fleury - A Symphony of Purity and Power
Champagne Fleury is a family-owned Champagne house located in the Côte des Bar region of southern Champagne. Founded in 1895, the house is known for its biodynamically produced Champagnes, which are made using natural methods that respect the environment and the terroir. The Fleury family has been at the forefront of the biodynamic movement in Champagne. In 1989, Jean-Pierre Fleury became the first Champagne producer to convert his entire vineyard to biodynamics. Today, the house is certified biodynamic by Demeter, an international organization that sets standards for biodynamic agriculture. Fleury's Champagnes are made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The wines are known for their elegance, purity, and minerality.
Champagne Fleury Sonate Extra Brut 2012: A Symphony of Purity and Power
In the glass it shimmers with a pale gold brilliance, a touch deeper than most "brut nature" Champagnes. The mousse is fine and persistent, forming delicate, ephemeral chains of bubbles that rise gracefully to the surface.On the nose, an initial burst of vibrant green apple and pear mingles with notes of white peach and candied orange peel. As the wine opens up, deeper aromas emerge: buttery brioche, toasted hazelnuts, and a hint of honeyed beeswax. Subtle floral notes of honeysuckle and acacia blossom add a touch of elegance. Notably, there's an intriguing earthiness, a whisper of damp mossy woods, that adds complexity and intrigue. The palate is where the Sonate truly sings. The initial attack is vibrant and energetic, with a racy acidity that cleanses and excites the taste buds. The dominant red fruit character of Pinot Noir takes center stage, offering flavors of ripe raspberries and wild strawberries intermingled with tart cherries and juicy red plums. Chardonnay's minerality underpins the fruit, providing a backbone of chalky, wet stones and a long, saline finish. Beyond the fruit and acid, a fascinating textural complexity unfolds. The natural ferments and oak cask aging contribute subtle tannins that lend a slight chewiness, contrasting with the creamy mousse. There's a hint of brioche, a whisper of honey, and a lingering nuttiness that lingers on the long, satisfying finish.
Throughout the experience, the Sonate's "zero dosage" nature shines through. The absence of added sugar allows the pure terroir and meticulous winemaking to take center stage. This is a Champagne of remarkable honesty and transparency, reflecting the unique character of Fleury's Grand Cru vineyards.
Overall, the 2012 Champagne Fleury Sonate Extra Brut is a stunning expression of terroir and craftsmanship. It's a wine for those seeking a serious, complex Champagne, where every sip is a journey of discovery. This is a symphony of purity and power, a testament to the Fleury family's dedication to biodynamic viticulture and natural winemaking.
