Kurt Zimmerman is going from strength to strength at Champagne Pernet et Pernet. This is an amazing transformation from an RC business (grapes are processed by a cooperative in return for bottles) into a true RM (recoltant manipulant) grower.  This year Kurt will have his own modern press and an extended and renovated new cuverie which will allow the family to bottle 4 of their 9 hectares of organic vineyards, spread across Vertus, Bergeres Vertus, Ambonnay, Bouzy, and Tauxieres. With harvests becoming warmer and warmer, starting with 2023, the family decided to harvest their vineyards at night. Initially starting at 4am and then 2.30am. This allowed grapes to be pressed at much cooler temperatures (15 degrees rather than 25 degrees), lessening the risk of oxidation and allowing less use of sulfur. Four vineyard workers died during the heat of the 2023 champagne harvest. Also, smaller baskets are being used to minimize the risk of grape damage. Gendarmes arrived to investigate the night pickers fearing thieves were at work!

Champagne Pernet et Pernet Monts Ferres 2018 Blanc de Blancs

100% chardonnay, 50% oak, dosage 3gm vintage 2018. This 100% Chardonnay from a single parcel in 1er  Cru Vertus is a stunning expression of maybe the best vineyard in Vertus, on the north of the village touching Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Champagne Leclerc Briant produces a similar champagne, and reliable sources in France who have tasted both cuvees say they are virtually identical.  Well apart from the price. The Leclerc Briant is roughly triple the price. Lovely creamy texture with hints of quince and citrus. The oak adds an expansive palate but all held in check. Texture and tension with great length.

Champagne Pernet et Pernet Ambonnay Blanc de Noirs 2019

100% pinot, 50% oak, dosage 3gm vintage 2019. From two parcels in Grand Cru Ambonnay “Le Terme Bazin” and “Les Toures”. 2019 is an exceptional champagne vintage (in the great 2018, 2019, 2020 trilogy) and this organic Ambonnay is a stunning expression of the purity of its pinot noir. Hints of citrus and subtle smoky oak add a level of tension and elegance. Ambonnay pinot avoids the sometimes fat richness of neighboring Bouzy and can acquire real subtle pure cherry-like red fruit purity. Ambonnay hosts some iconic vignerons, Egly-Ouriet, Krug, Dethune, Benoit Marguet, Eric Rodez. This quality from any of them would be triple the price.