Louis Picamelot Blanc de Blancs Brut NV, Traditional Method, Burgundy

Louis Picamelot Blanc de Blancs Brut is a traditional-method sparkling wine from the family house in Rully, which has specialised in Burgundian sparkling wine since 1926. Made from white grapes only, chiefly Chardonnay, grown on limestone soils, it goes through its second fermentation in bottle and is then aged on the lees for an extended period before a light dosage, giving it real finesse.

In the glass it is a pale gold with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose is pure and elegant, with lemon, white flowers and green apple, plus a touch of brioche from the lees ageing. The palate is crisp and refined, with citrus and orchard fruit, a creamy texture and a chalky, mineral finish.

Serve well chilled, at around 6–8°C. It is a superb aperitif and pairs beautifully with oysters, smoked salmon, sushi, gougères and creamy chicken or fish dishes. A lovely alternative to Champagne for celebrations, it is ready to enjoy now.

Maison Louis Picamelot is a family house in Rully, in Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise, founded in 1926 by Louis Picamelot, the son of a cooper and winegrower. It was one of the first houses in Rully to devote itself to sparkling wine, and it still makes nothing else. It remains in the hands of Louis’ descendants, and the estate has grown to around 11 hectares, including prized plots in Rully 1er Cru and Saint-Aubin. All grapes are picked by hand, earlier than for still wines, and every Crémant is made by the traditional method, with full malolactic fermentation, extended ageing on the lees and a light dosage. Part of the winery is set into an old Rully stone quarry.