Initiation 2018 - 1.5L
Benoit Dehu

Cepage: 78% Pinot Meunier 22% Pinot Noir

Vinyards:  Blend of two parcels: Meunier from La Rue des Noyers, Pinot Noir from a small parcel at the bottom of the hill which Benoît planted using massale selection of Pommard clones from Burgundy.

Soils:  Rue des Noyers: Clay-limestone; Pinot Noir parcel: Clay-sand

Viticulture: Organically farmed Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. All hand-harvested

Vinification:  Vinified in oak barrels, many of which are made from trees from the forest of Fossoy. No malo, unfined and unfiltered.

Aging: Aged in oak barrels and then sur lattes in bottle for 24-30 months. Unfined and unfiltered; zero dosage.

Notes:  Cuvée Initiation is the newest addition to the Déhu lineup. Made from Pinot Noir and his signature variety Pinot Meunier, which Benoît planted using massale selection of Pommard clone from Burgundy. Oak vinification and ageing, unfined and unfiltered, low dosage. The wine is zippy and round with a persistent finish.

90 pts Vinous (2018)

The NV (2018) Initiation is a terrific entry-level Champagne from Benoit Déhu that blends Pinot Noir into a core of Meunier. Soft and creamy, with terrific persistence, the Initiation is wonderfully expressive today. Apricot, ripe pear, dried flowers and lightly honeyed nuances all build into the resonant finish. No dosage. Disgorged: February, 2021