Larmandier-Bernier Les Chemins d'Avize Grand Cru 2009

Wineadvocate

Sourced from two contiguous sites, the Larmandier-Bernier 2009 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Chemins d’Avize leads with a gorgeous aromatic amalgam of heliotrope and iris perfume mingled with nutmeg and sea breeze. Broad and texturally silken yet buoyant, the seemingly softly chalky mid-palate leads to a rather austerely mineral finish that, for now at least, doesn’t redeem the promise of the nose, let alone harbor the sort of allure and savor found in the bottlings I tasted alongside. I have to suspect that the relative weakness here – and it is still a lovely wine – is a function of vintage.

Vinous

The 2009 Chemin d'Avize Blanc de Blancs is a new wine that is being bottled for the first time. Previously the fruit from these two parcels - Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny - had gone into the Longitude. Focused and beautifully delineated throughout, the 2009 impresses for its freshness and understated personality. Floral aromatics meld into spice, lime and pear nuances. I especially like the brightness and energy here. This is a terrific debut from Larmandier-Bernier. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged January 2014. (Drink between 2014-2024)