Paul Launois Champagne Contraste #2

The ‘Contraste’ is a bit of a departure from the “single-parcel” obsession, and frankly, it’s all the better for it. It’s a blend of two distinct plots within Le Mesnil, and the name says it all: it’s a study in tension versus texture–high-definition acidity paired with a surprisingly creamy mid-palate.

100% Pinot Meunier, fermented in stainless steel to keep the fruit pristine, but given enough time on the lees to develop a sophisticated, vinous weight.This is a bottle for the purists. It’s bright, it’s bracing, and it reminds us why we fell in love with grower Champagne in the first place.