2018 Leclerc-Briant Champagne Abyss Millesime (Pre-arrival)

“Aged for one year in the sea off the coast of Brittany, the 2018 Champagne Millésime Abyss Brut Nature is Pinot Noir, Meunier, and a bit of Chardonnay. It was disgorged in winter 2022 and submerged later that year in the Bay of the Stiff. In the cellar, it’s aged in both oak and stainless steel, with the first fermentation followed by three years of aging before it goes underwater. Primarily sourced from the Côte des Blancs and the Vallée de la Marne, with the Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs, the idea is to enhance the sense of place through sea aging, which is at the same temperature as the cellar. This is a pure and fruity vintage of Abyss, framed by delicate saline notes and enhanced floral complexity, with notes of confit lemon, white strawberry, and fresh, powdery earth. The wine pours a bright yellow color and is incredibly expressive upon opening, and it’s medium-bodied and finessed on the palate. The sea influence doesn’t dominate the wine, and the mousse is very elegant. Compared to the rest of the range, it can seem quite subtle, but I much prefer it in this vintage. Despite having no dosage, it does not feel austere. I’m not sure how it will age in this release, but I love it now, and it feels ready to drink.”