Champagne Laurent Bénard - La Clé des Sept Arpents

Overview:
A Premier Cru Extra Brut Champagne crafted from a blend of 45% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay, and 20% Pinot Meunier. The grapes are sourced from the villages of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Avenay-Val-d’Or, and Mutigny, specifically from four lieux-dits: Chemin du Bois, La Maladrille, Les Basses Clefs, and Les Sept Arpents. The base wine is from the 2019 harvest, complemented by 30% perpetual reserve initiated in 2012. Vinification includes 60% in vats and 40% in barrels, with aging on lees for over three years. The dosage is Extra Brut at 3 g/L. ​
 
Tasting Note:
Appearance: Intense orange-yellow hue.​
Nose: Aromas of dried fruits, candied orange, and saffron, with subtle notes of pineapple, cider apple, pear, and a touch of caramel. 
Palate: Light and direct, featuring flavors of cider apple, dried apricot, and citrus zest. The palate is slightly saline, fine, and intense. The finish reveals notes of apricot kernel, saffron, light prune, lemony citrus, and vanilla grains. Overall, a delicate and gourmet Champagne. ​
Serving Recommendation:
Serve well-chilled at 9–12 °C. Its gustatory amplitude and vinous structure make it suitable for pairing with meals. ​
Accolades:
93–94/100 – Vertdevin ​
92/100 – Gault&Millau ​
Silver Medal – Challenge Millésime Bio 2023 
2 Stars – Guide Hachette 2023
This Champagne exemplifies the natural style with controlled oxidation, appealing to connoisseurs who appreciate depth and complexity in their sparkling wines.