Initiation 2020
Benoit Dehu

Cepage: 78% Pinot Meunier 22% Pinot Noir

Vinyards: Blend of two parcels: Meunierfrom La Rue des Noyers, Pinot Noirfrom a small parcel at the bottom of the hill which Benot planted using massale selection of Pommard clones from Burgundy.

Soils: Rue des Noyers: Clay-limestone; Pinot Noir parcel: Clay-sand

Viticulture:Organically farmed Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. All hand-harvested

Vinification: Vinified in oak barrels, many of which are made from trees from the forest of Fossoy. No malo, unfined and unfiltered.

Aging:Aged in oak barrels and then sur lattes in bottle for 24-30 months. Unfined and unfiltered; zero dosage.

Notes: Cuve Initiation is the newest addition to the Dhu lineup. Made from Pinot Noir and his signature variety Pinot Meunier, which Benot planted using massale selection of Pommard clone from Burgundy. Oak vinification and ageing, unfined and unfiltered, low dosage. The wine is zippy and round with a persistent finish.

For comparison the 2019 scored 91VM:

The NV Initiation, a blend of 77% Pinot Meunier and 23% Pinot Noir from two parcels in Fossoy, is a fine entry-level offering. Dried flowers, mint, spice and ginger all grace this attractive, mid-weight Champagne. There is a bit of reduction, but it works well in this style. I especially admire the finish here. Bottled with no dosage.