Telmont's Lieux-Dits 2012: a vintage Extra Brut from a single Meunier plot in Damery.

Telmont's Lieux-Dits collection opened with this 2012 from Sous Adrien, a 0.79-hectare, south-facing plot of deep brown limestone soil just west of Damery, planted entirely with Meunier in 2006. 2012 was a difficult year until an exceptional August rescued it, and the moisture-holding soil helped these young vines thrive. Cellar master Bertrand Lhôpital fermented it in a 5,000-liter oak foudre with bâtonnage, avoided malolactic fermentation, and aged it nine years on lees under natural cork before a 2023 disgorgement with a 5 g/L dosage. Only 920 bottles were made. Anne Krebiehl MW of The World of Fine Wine (93 points) found it "immensely youthful still," with the "smoldering smokiness" that gives the Meunier away. Built for ageing, it drinks beautifully now and has years in hand. 12% ABV, 750ml.