Jerome Prevost La Closerie LC21 Extra Brut NV
Jérôme Prévost is a prominent figure in the world of Champagne production, known for his dedication to creating intense, terroir-specific Champagnes. He is part of a small group of producers, often referred to as the "Champagne Renegades," who prioritize crafting vinous Champagnes that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyards. Inheriting a two-hectare parcel known as Les Béguines from his grandmother, Jérôme focuses on cultivating Pinot Meunier, with additional vines of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay interspersed throughout the parcel. He is dedicated to producing terroir-transparent bottlings primarily dedicated to one grape and one vintage, with a tendency to blend in 10-15% reserve wines. Jérôme's winemaking journey began when he took over the vineyard in 1987, transitioning from renting out the vines to selling grapes directly to négociants. His experience working at Jacques Selosse and the guidance of Anselme Selosse influenced his winemaking techniques, leading to a focus on low yields and chemical-free farming. The winemaking process involves hand-harvesting all grapes, fermenting with indigenous yeasts using a mix of used barriques and demi-muids, and a unique disgorgement process about 16 months after bottling. Jérôme finishes the Champagnes with no dosage and minimal sulfur to preserve the wine's purity. Notably, Jérôme also produces miniscule quantities of a Rose Champagne called Fac-simile, along with occasional experimental cuvées that showcase his innovative spirit. Despite the technical details, Jérôme's approach to winemaking is driven by a desire to create wines that bring people together in the name of deliciousness, reflecting his generous and artistic nature.
The Jerome Prevost La Closerie LC21 Extra Brut NV represents the third release of Prévost’s négociant-manipulant cuvée, which originated during the frost-ravaged 2017 season. Unlike the first two releases, which were exclusively 100% Pinot Meunier sourced from Prévost’s neighbors in Gueux, the 2021 release was sourced from various vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, including a significant portion from the Cramant Grand Cru. It's important to note that when Prévost utilizes purchased fruit, he selects growers who prioritize cultivated soils, low yields and full ripeness, working closely with them to oversee the harvest date and grape sorting.
The winemaking process for this label mirrors that of the estate label, involving the use of indigenous yeasts and fermentation and aging in a combination of used barrels ranging from 225 to 600 litres. Prévost refrains from racking, filtering or stabilizing the wine. The secondary fermentation utilizes 23 g/L, followed by up to 18 months of bottle aging before hand-disgorging with approximately 2 g/L. It's worth noting that Jérôme mentioned that in 2022, this label will revert to its original sourcing. This makes the Jerome Prevost La Closerie LC21 Extra Brut NV a coveted collector's item for enthusiasts.
The Finer Details
Style - Champagne
Varietal - Pinot Meunier 90%, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay
Country - France
Region - Champagne
Vintage - LC 21, Disgorged September 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%