Description
The Brice family has lived in the village of Bouzy since the 17th century, and were exclusively focused on red wine production, only shifting to Champagne production after WWII. In 1994, Jean-Paul Brice founded Champagne Brice and ten years later Jean-Paul’s sons Jean-René and Remi took the reins, with consulting oenologist and viticulturist Christophe Constant, formerly of J-L Vergnon.
Brice owns twelve hectares of vines, eight of which are in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy—mostly Pinot Noir with one hectare of Chardonnay. The remaining estate vineyards are in Chigny-lès-Roses (1.5 hectares of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) and Loches-sur-Ource in the Aube (2.5 hectares of Pinot Noir). All vineyards are farmed organically, and the house style avoids malolactic fermentation entirely. This preference usually results in wines with more vibrant acidity.
The Brut Héritage XVIII bottling is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. Primary fermentation and élevage all in stainless steel; with 30% reserve wine held in 228L French oak barrels and a dosage of 5g/L.
Pale yellow, with vibrant bead. The nose is fresh, with scents of green apple and hint of bee’s wax. The palate is wonderfully balanced with flavors of tart green apple, fresh lemon and a stony intensity through the persistent finish.
