The name of Cuvée 1522 is a tribute to the year when the Philipponnat family settled in the village of Ay, in the heart of the Champagne vine-growing area. The family’s ancestors can be traced back in time through the House archives right back to the first, Apvril le Philipponnat, who owned vines in “Le Léon”, between Ay and Dizy from 1522.

THE VINTAGE

The summer of 2018 was the driest on record, with virtually no rain from midJune until the harvest, and then again until the end of October. The harvest began on 27th August, three days after the official starting date in Mareuilsur-Ay, and ended on 8th September.

TASTING NOTES

On the eye: Light gold in color.

On the nose: A rich and captivating nose that opens up with aromas of lightly toasted brioche, vanilla and crème brûlée. On being left to breathe, subtle hints of menthol delicately round off the bouquet.

On the palate: The palate is generous and creamy, revealing notes of patisserie with a hint of candied citrus fruit. The finish is persistent and delicious, with a distinctive and delicate spicy note of white pepper that is the signature of this cuvée and of the Ay terroir.

PAIRING

Cuvée 1522 is full-bodied, making it an excellent Champagne for dining. The very dry character of this Extra-Brut dosage cuvée goes well with seafood and poached or grilled fish. Pairing with poultry such as capon reveals an interesting dry-full contrast. An even bolder combination with caviar or very spicy dishes such as Indian tandoori will delight more daring taste buds. However, do avoid sweet and sweet-and-sour dishes.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Varietals: 72% Pinot Noir, 28% Chardonnay

Appellation: Exclusively Grands Crus. The Pinot Noir comes from the vineyard at “Le Léon” in Ay, and in Mailly, and the Chardonnay from Oger.

Aging: Aged for six years. After this time, the freshness is still apparent, but the benefit of aging on lees has reached full potential.