Roederer et Philippe Starck Champagne Brut Nature 2012

Sustainability is a big focus in Champagne and Louis Roederer is leading the way. A unique house in that they have significant vineyard holdings, half of which will be officially certified organic in March 2021. This attention to the land and the quality of their fruit is evident across the range but perhaps heightened in this, their vintage zero dosage Champagne.

This cuvée is a collaboration with famed designer Philippe Starck. Starck not only designed the label but was an integral part of designing the style – a modern, mineral, sulphite-free Champagne. 

I am immediately entranced by aromas of lemon zest, apple blossom and sea breeze – the scent of a perfect summer day.

Six years on lees are expressed in flavours of Challah, or if you haven’t tried that recently, think savoury brioche, and perfectly crisp lavosh crackers. There’s grapefruit freshly scooped from it’s rind and a hint of toasted cashew. 

As you would expect from a zero dosage style it is ultra dry with incredibly high acidity, but the complexity distracts you from noticing it – especially when paired with corner shop fish and chips.