Berrys' Extra Dry, Crémant de Limoux

This is a hugely successful marriage of Champagne elegance with the ripeness of Languedoc fruit from iconoclast and native Champenois Jean-Louis Denois; Our own Extra Dry is now made from a blend of Chardonnay 55%, Chenin Blanc 35% and extraordinarily, it even includes a 10% of Pinot Noir, taking advantage of the recent changes in the AOC laws which now permit the use of this more sophisticated grape in the place of the humbler traditional Mauzac. This sparkling wine has a soft, delicate mousse and a floral nose with the suggestion of honey, nougat and limes that combine to give this wine from the south of France immense appeal. Perfect for any occasion.

This wine was blended by Berrys' buyer together with Jean-Louis Denois in the spring following the vintage. We try to keep the dosage to a lowish level and ask for extra time on the lees; The wine, with additional pre and post disgorgement ageing, which is drinking perfectly, its tropical exuberance now tempered by pleasing honeyed and biscuity notes. This is perhaps due in no small measure to the fact that the blend is dominated by Chardonnay, with the percentages of Chenin Blanc and the more traditional Mauzac reduced significantly; he has even added a little Pinot Noir, also evocative of his native Champagne. We mustn't tell him, but it's pretty good value at this price.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)


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Wines for our Berrys' own selection are hand-picked by our expert buyers and are standard-bearers of style and quality from classical wine regions, offering exceptional value for money.

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....this extra-dry sparkler has fresh notes of lime and elegant, floral characters. The palate is bone dry with refreshing acidity. This is a great substitute to Champagne at a fraction of the price, and perfect for any occasion.
(Decanter.com, Ten Best Wines from Berry Bros., June 09)