2013 Larmandier-Bernier Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant

Larmandier-Bernier’s flagship wine, Vieille Vigne du Levant, is a masterclass in old-vine Chardonnay and one of the great blanc de blancs of Champagne.

Sourced from some of the oldest vines in Cramant - planted in 1960 and earlier - this wine carries the weight and grace of history in the glass. Formerly labelled Vieille Vigne de Cramant, the cuvée’s name now reflects the Bourron du Levant vineyard, the soul of the wine, supported by a parcel in Le Fond du Bâteau with 85-year-old vines.

This 2013 vintage was disgorged in September 2022 after more than eight years on lees and sees just 2g/L dosage. It’s a wine of shimmering intensity - concentrated and powerful yet defined by tension and poise. Think ripe stone fruits, crushed chalk, and layers of lemon oil, pastry, and sea spray, with a creamy, satin-textured palate that finishes with a long saline snap.

This is Champagne at its most profound: complex, layered, and unforced. A benchmark grower wine and a must for lovers of mineral-driven, terroir-expressive Champagne.

96+ points
“The Larmandier family excelled in this cooler vintage, so it’s unsurprising that the 2013 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant has turned out beautifully. Wafting from the glass with notes of crisp yellow orchard fruit, brioche, white flowers, oyster shell and honeycomb, it’s medium to full-bodied, deep, layered and incisive, with a tangy spine of acidity, terrific tension and a long, racy finish.”
- William Kelley (The Wine Advocate)

95 points
“The 2013 Extra Brut Vieille Vigne de Levant Grand Cru is a Champagne of real breadth and substance that captures the essence of these 50-70-year-old vines. Apricot, chamomile, dried flowers and a kiss of oak are all amplified. Vinous and creamy, the 2013 builds beautifully with time in the glass, showing tremendous character and pedigree. The 2013 was fermented and aged in a combination of neutral barrique and foudre. It’s a super-classic Larmandier-Bernier Champagne. Dosage is 2 grams per liter.”
- Antonio Galloni (Vinous)