Arthur Lelievre 'Ludes' Chardonnay Extra Brut, Champagne, France

The Arthur Lelievre 'Ludes' Chardonnay Extra Brut, Champagne, France is a compelling Blanc de Blancs Champagne that channels the elegance and mineral expression of its Premier Cru origins in the Montagne de Reims. Made from 100% Chardonnay grown in sustainably farmed vineyards within the village of Ludes, this small-production cuvée offers a pure, terroir-driven style that is both refined and deeply expressive.

Product Details:

• Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
• Disgorgement Date: June 2023
• Dosage: 1 g/L (Extra Brut)
• Alcohol: 12% ABV
• Vinification: Plot-by-plot vinification in oak barrels (228L and 350L); use of indigenous yeasts; aged for at least 2 years on lees
• Production: Limited to 697 bottles
• Farming: Sustainable viticulture
• Winemaker & Owner: Arthur Lelievre

Sensory Description:

This Champagne opens with a delicate bouquet of crisp green apple, lemon zest, and chalky minerality, underscored by subtle toasty notes from barrel aging. On the palate, it offers exceptional tension and precision, combining richness and elegance with flavors of white peach, citrus peel, and hazelnut. The fine mousse and linear finish reveal a depth that speaks to its Premier Cru terroir and careful craftsmanship.

Winemaker's Background:

Arthur Lelievre is a seventh-generation Champagne grower, descended from the family behind the historic Forget-Chauvet estate, established in 1950. In 2021, Arthur and his sister Ophélie launched their own label, Champagne Arthur Lelievre, to craft terroir-focused cuvées from Premier Cru vineyards in the village of Ludes in the Montagne de Reims. With a philosophy rooted in sustainability and non-interventionist winemaking, Arthur brings a Burgundian approach to Champagne: using indigenous yeasts, vinifying by parcel in oak barrels, and aging his wines on lees for extended periods. His goal is to preserve the purity of the fruit and showcase the character of Ludes’ marl and clay-limestone soils. Though production is limited, just 3,500 bottles annually—his Champagnes have already earned a reputation for their depth, elegance, and precision.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at 10–12°C in a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass to capture its aromatic finesse and texture. Ideal alongside creamy seafood dishes, goat cheese tartlets, or a simple preparation of scallops with beurre blanc. Also pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or sushi for a more unexpected but delicious match.

This exquisite cuvée is a testament to Arthur Lelievre’s precision and vision as a grower-producer in Champagne. The 'Ludes' Chardonnay Extra Brut shows how minimalist winemaking, a focus on terroir, and a Burgundian sensibility can yield a Champagne of superb depth and grace.