Clandestin | Champagne | BORÉAL, Brut Nature | 2022 | 750ml

Description

Product description for Clandestin BORÉAL, Brut Nature 2022

Clandestin is the collaborative project of Bertrand Gautherot (Vouette & Sorbée) and the young Burgundian Benoit Dousset, with the goal of creating a unique terroir champagne from the Aube region on the Côte des Bars. The grapes come exclusively from biodynamically farmed vineyards that adhere to the same high standards as Vouette & Sorbée. Vines at least 20 years old and consistent sunlight are prerequisites. Only ripe, flawless grapes are processed, eliminating the need for dosage. In the cellar, no pumping is used; fermentation is carried out with natural yeasts, and each plot is vinified separately. The wines are aged in neutral oak barrels (300–500 l) and bottled after 15 months without filtration or dosage. The BORÉAL is made from 100% Pinot Noir, grown on three plots with similar clay and limestone soils and a pure north exposure. Spontaneously fermented and aged in wood for ten months, it was disgorged after 15 months on the lees in September 2024.

Color

Straw yellow with delicate apricot reflections and persistent perlage.

Nose

The nose oscillates between moderate autolysis and delicate citrus notes. Sourdough bread crust, salted hazelnuts, green almonds, and warm plaited bread are underpinned by citrus zest reminiscent of cedar, candied orange peel, and tart red cranberries. Added to this are distinctive saline notes that immediately transport one to the sea – six oysters included.

Palate

On the palate, the 2022 BORÉAL from Champagne Clandestin is immediately present with its rich, juicy fruit, resulting from the full ripeness of the 2022 vintage. Light red fruit notes, a creamy texture with small bubbles, and a complex nature define this generous entry. The finish is more pared down, almost purist – its ripe fruit meets a precise, gripping minerality. A striking champagne that combines austere austerity with openness, yet is both challenging and inviting.

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Keywords: Clandestin BORÉAL, Brut Nature 2022 Champagne France

Producer website: https://www.champagneclandestin.fr/