Deutz Brut Vintage is always Pinot-led, and in 2012 Pinot Noir comprised two thirds of the wine, with grapes coming from the Grand Cru vineyards of Aÿ, Bouzy and Ambonnay. The balance is comprised of Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs (Mesnil and Chouilly), and Pinot Meunier from Leuvrigny. The grapes were pressed and vinified at Deutz’s state of the art winery in Aÿ, with each individual parcel being vinified in its own separate tank.

Champagne Deutz owns 42 hectares of vineyards, which supply 20% of its grapes. The rest of the grapes are sourced from growers, many of whom have been working with Deutz for generations. Grapes are harvested from the Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, and Vallée de la Marne, with over 80% of the grapes coming from vineyards that are rated Premier or Grand Cru.

Weather: The 2012 weather has been hallmarked by many as very challenging but has created some stunning Champagne. Relatively low yields due to various weather conditions throughout the year. The winter months brought some frosts and hail which damaged the early stages of bud burst. Much of August was very wet and the year was saved as the sun came out in September and rescued the vintage. Most 2012 have a great balance with purity of fruit and chalky minerality and with the potential to rival the 2002 and 2008's.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: 100% Grand Cru
Grape Varieties: 67% Pinot Noir, 29% Chardonnay & 4% Meunier
Dosage: 9 g/l
Lees Ageing: 4 years
Alcohol: 12%
Drink: Now to 2030

Tasting Note: A light golden hue with a sustained sparkle. Elegant and powerful with ripe aromas, a precise mid palate shows off the 2012 characteristics well, peaches and gooseberries shine through until the finish.