Description
From the La Pierre aux Larrons lieu-dit in Ambonnay, R.H. Coutier La Pierre aux Larrons 2016 is a Champagne AOC Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs from France, made entirely from Chardonnay and finished as Extra Brut. The Coutier family has been rooted in Ambonnay since 1619, and fifth-generation Antoine Coutier now leads the domaine, whose modern identity reflects Henri Coutier’s decision to plant Chardonnay in a village historically centered on Pinot Noir. This cuvée comes solely from La Pierre aux Larrons, planted by Henri Coutier in 1948 with massal-selection Chardonnay on fine silt over limestone and white chalk; additional trade material identifies a south-east-facing chalk slope. Vinification and élevage take place for about one year in 228-liter Burgundy barrels, followed by bottle aging on lees for at least six to seven years and disgorgement with 2.5 grams per liter dosage. The wine situates Coutier’s work through Ambonnay Grand Cru history, early Chardonnay planting, and single-parcel selection.