At a glance

Producer

Vilmart & Cie

Region

Champagne, France

Grape variety

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

Wine type

Sparkling

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$85-$120

Tasting profile

Notes of white flowers, citrus zest, almonds, brioche, and subtle minerality with a fine mousse.

Evolution: Will gain richer toasted and nutty autolytic notes with increased depth and creaminess.

At peak: Complex interplay of fruit, yeast, and mature secondary flavors with elegant balance.

Structure

Acidity

High, vibrant and crisp

Tannins

Low (typical for Champagne)

Alcohol

12.5%

Aging potential

Excellent, 15-25 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2044

Optimal window

2018 to 2047

Current status

Drinking well with aging potential

Current condition

Balanced maturity with lively acidity and developing complexity

Vilmart & Cie Coeur de Cuvée is a prestige cuvée champagne made primarily from Chardonnay with some Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The 2012 vintage is recognized for its balance of ripe fruit and refreshing acidity, suitable for long aging. This champagne’s strong acidity, fine mousse, and quality fruit support a drinking window well beyond a decade, peaking in about 10-15 years after vintage release.

Food pairing

Ideal with seafood such as oysters and lobster, fine poultry dishes, creamy cheeses, and rich appetizers.

Serving

Serving temperature

8-10°C / 46-50°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

They focus on hand-harvesting, minimizing chemical inputs, maintaining biodiversity in vineyards, and careful water management. The winery uses energy-efficient methods and lightweight packaging to reduce environmental impact.

Vilmart & Cie demonstrates good sustainability practices common among quality Champagne houses, prioritizing minimal intervention in vineyards and energy efficiency. While not fully certified organic or biodynamic, their commitment to sustainable farming and lower-impact packaging places them above average in sustainability in their region.