Sparkling Wines Champagne Philipponnat - Blanc de Noirs Brut - 2009

Viniou Reviews

The 2009 Philipponnat Cuvée Blanc de Noirs Brut is a sparkling wine of distinction, crafted entirely from black-skinned grapes—predominantly Pinot Noir, as is customary for a Blanc de Noirs from Champagne. This vintage encapsulates the ripe character of 2009, a year marked by generous sunshine, resulting in full-bodied wines with lush fruit. Made using the traditional method, the wine develops its effervescence through a second fermentation in bottle, leading to fine bubbles and complex autolytic notes. The ageing on lees imparts nuances of brioche and biscuit, elegantly complementing the robust orchard and stone fruit profile typical of Blanc de Noirs.

Champagne, one of the world's most prestigious wine regions, benefits from a cool continental climate, which preserves the grapes' acidity and freshness—critical for high-quality sparkling wine. The chalky soils of the region, particularly esteemed in areas like the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne, offer excellent drainage yet retain enough moisture to support the vines during dry periods. Philipponnat, with its rich history dating back to the 16th century, is renowned for its Pinot Noir-dominated styles, especially from top vineyard sites like Clos des Goisses.

For food pairings, the richness and structure of this Blanc de Noirs make it a versatile companion. It stands up beautifully to dishes such as roasted poultry, duck breast with cherries, or even veal in creamy sauce. Classic Champagne pairings like gougères or Comté cheese provide a delightful match. Given its depth, it can also enhance regional specialities like andouillette or pâté en croûte.

To enjoy this wine at its best, serve it well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature preserves the lively mousse, while allowing the complex fruit and subtle savoury notes to unfold on the palate. Use a tulip-shaped glass rather than a narrow flute to better appreciate its aromatic nuance and textural richness. Allow the wine a moment to open up in the glass before savouring each sip.