Larmandier Bernier

Larmandier is a well-known name in the Côte des Blancs, as the family has been winemakers for eight generations. The Larmandier Bernier champagne house has been in existence for 50 years, founded in 1971 by a couple, Elizabeth Bernier and Philippe Larmandier.

It produces Grands Crus, on a 15-hectare estate cultivated organically and located on prestigious terroirs in the Côte des Bar. Today, the estate is run by Pierre Larmendier and his wife Sophie. Their son Arthur Larmandier has been working with them since 2017.

Natural viticulture

Convinced that the quality of a champagne is rooted in the grapes, Domaine Larmandier Bernier implements natural, exacting methods to care for the vines. Nature's cycles are preserved as far as possible, and every gesture is carefully considered. The estate is run according to biodynamic principles, with the aim of preserving the heritage of ancient vines and enhancing the terroir and quality of the grapes, without the use of phytosanitary products.

The wines are aged as naturally as possible, in tuns and barrels for almost a year, using indigenous yeasts. By keeping intervention to a minimum, the aim is to produce champagnes that are as pure as possible. As a result, there is no filtration or fining, and most cuvées are produced without dosage (to check the finish). The result is a range of champagnes described as impressive by the greatest experts, and unique cuvées expressing all the beauty of this exceptional terroir.

The champagnes

And these choices pay off, as the cuvées of Domaine Larmandier Bernier receive multiple awards, with first and then second stars in the classification of France's best wines. In 2002, Pierre Larmandier was named "meilleur espoir du vin" by the French wine magazine, and the following year "vigneron de l'année" by GaultMillau.

The estate's flagship cuvée is Terre de Vertus. It's a champagne of incredible finesse, atypical and complex, with its saline notes, made exclusively from Chardonnay. It can be enjoyed in its youth, or after a few years in the cellar, and goes wonderfully with truffles, oysters or as an aperitif. It's a soft champagne with lemony notes and a beautiful patina finish.

Vieilles vignes du Levant is a 100% Chardonnay cuvée made from old vines nearly 80 years old. It's a rich, powerful champagne with a complex aromatic bouquet, a perfect accompaniment to a meat dish cooked with cream.

Longitude is a champagne of great freshness. This historic estate cuvée had been named "Blanc de Blancs" for over a century, and is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes then vinified with 40% reserve wine. The palate offers a creamy mousse and a chalky finish. This is a champagne with mineral notes, perfect to accompany an aperitif and whet your appetite.