2011 Philippe Gonet Blanc de Blancs Millesime, Champagne, France

Spring was exceptionally hot and dry, resulting in an early harvest.  A lack of rainfall from March to May, when the vine grows greatly,  has an impact on vigour and vegetative expression. The lack of water has reduced mineralization, nitrogen assimilation and other elements provided by the soil. In many plots, this situation has resulted in a general decrease in vegetative expression. The period of water stress gives it a exceptional dimension with honourable returns.