フランス

Comme Autrefois 2008 Françoise Bedel

French Secret Cellar ・ FRANCOIS BEDEL - AS BEFORE

C08SP5621

Sparkling

Regular price: ¥47,882
Sale price: ¥47,882
Regular price

Tax included.

1btl. 750ml

Shipping calculated at checkout.

This cuvée, named "As Before," is the true essence of Françoise Bedel, a pioneer who was the first to practice biodynamics in the westernmost part of the Vallée de la Marne. Centered around the dominant Pinot Meunier, the taste, born from barrel fermentation and long-term aging on lees, is a harmonious blend of ripe fruit with subtle oxidative notes and a hint of saltiness, creating a creamy and profound drink. This wine is crafted with reverence for the soil as a living entity, in harmony with the moon's cycles. It is a masterpiece to be savored quietly and slowly, appreciating the complexity woven by time.

付与予定ポイント: pt

Tasting Comments

Tasting Notes
This mature Champagne is a harmonious blend of extended lees aging and barrel-imparted nuances. When poured, it reveals a deep, golden hue and delicate, persistent bubbles.
The aroma presents ripe fruits like compote pear, yellow peach, and dried apricot, alongside the toasted notes of brioche, honey, and a hint of spice.
On the palate, a creamy, deep texture expands, with the rich fruitiness from the Meunier grape balanced by supple acidity and a subtle saline touch. A slight hint of oxidation adds complexity, providing a quiet length and depth to the finish.

Pairing
Roasted Chicken Thigh
Pan-Seared Scallops
Aged Comté (12-24 months)

Technical Data

Cultivation Information

Françoise Bedel is a producer located in a small hamlet at the westernmost end of the Vallée de la Marne, the home of Meunier.

She was a pioneer who transitioned to biodynamics even before anyone in the industry was familiar with the term. She decided to convert in 1996 after meeting biodynamic pioneers (Marc Kreydenweiss, Anne-Claude Leflaive, and Jean-Claude Fleury), and obtained biodynamic certification in 2001.

The vineyards are around Crouttes-sur-Marne, at an altitude of 100-200m, covering approximately 8.4 hectares. The soil is a complex mix of clay, marl, limestone, and silt, and some plots have vines up to 60 years old.

Cultivation follows the lunar cycle, without synthetic chemicals, treating the soil as a living organism. Meunier is the main grape, complemented by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Currently, her son, Vincent Desautels, manages the estate.

Winemaking Information

True to its name, "Comme Autrefois" (meaning "as before"), this cuvée embodies a return to tradition.

It is a non-vintage Champagne made by carefully selecting the best barrels of the year, and all fermentation takes place in French oak barrels.

Bottled in square, ring-necked bottles sealed with corks, it undergoes long-term aging on its lees (typically around 11 years of sur latte aging before disgorgement).

Dosage is very low, ranging from Brut to Extra Brut depending on the year.