N/V Renaissance Extra Brut, Vadin-Plateau (2018 Base Vintage)
Yann Vadin is only in his late 20s, but has already earned huge respect for his wines, made from over 100 parcels scattered across 7 hectares in the Premier Cru village of Cumières to the north of Epernay and six other villages such as Aÿ, Damery, and Hautvillers. The domaine is certified organic, and practicing biodynamic. Renaissance comes exclusively from 40 year old Pinot Meunier grown in Cumières. It is made up of 80% from 2018 and 20% from 2017, it has not undergone malolactic fermentation, and is neither fined nor filtered. Yann has been experimenting with fermentation vessels, such as amphorae, but the technique that most defines his wines is the long bottle ageing he practices. The wine feels so subtle and composed, with a delicate floral nose and a soft creamy palate that glides. For the moment this estate represents seriously good value, and this is surely one of the stars of the future.