Duval-Leroy Vintage 2002 Brut Nature Grand Cru Femme de Champagne

Duval‑Leroy’s Femme de Champagne 2002 is a masterclass in vintage Brut Nature—silky yet structured, rich yet clean, and undeniably expressive of Grand Cru character. It’s a Champagne for collectors and gourmands alike, rewarding patience and appreciation of terroir-driven finesse.

🌿 Heritage & House Style

Femme de Champagne is the prestige cuvée of Maison Duval‑Leroy—a family-owned Champagne house since 1859 in Vertus, Côte des Blancs. This vintage-only offering was pioneered under the leadership of Carol Duval‑Leroy and Sandrine Logette‑Jardin, reflecting strong female stewardship and attention to terroir. The 2002 release is meticulously crafted from Grand Cru vineyards and aged to perfection before release.

👁 Appearance & Effervescence

Pours a pale golden hue with silvery highlights. Bubbles are fine and persistent, offering that mesmerizing dance typical of lengthy aging.

👃 Nose

A delightfully complex bouquet: orchard and stone fruits like apple, pear, quince, along with baked pastries, honeycomb, and toast. Nuances of hazelnut, honeysuckle flowers, and crystallized mandarin add extra elegance.

👅 Palate & Texture

The palate reflects a taut structure with vibrant mineral energy and a crystalline acidity. Flavors weave together orchard fruit, brioche, toasted nuts, and gentle wood spice, underpinned by a saline, chalky core.

🔁 Finish

The Brut Nature (zero dosage) style ensures a pure, linear finish—long and precise, with lingering citrus zest, nutty warmth, and a persistent mineral thread.

🏆 Critical Accolades

• 100 pts from Falstaff’s Peter Moser, admired for its depth, finesse, and complexity.

• 96 pts from Decanter, highlighting its roasted peach, hazelnut cream, and gala apple richness.

• 95 pts from Bettane & Desseauve and Spanish Peñín Bubbles Guide—applauded for its powerful structure and graceful balance.

🍽️ Food Pairing Suggestions

Ideal with premium shellfish, lobster, or oysters. It also pairs beautifully with fine cheeses, poultry dishes, or subtly sweet desserts that mirror its nutty and mineral undertones.

95% Chardonnay Grand Cru (Avize, Camant, Oger, Le Mesnil) and 5% Pinot Noir Grand Cru (Ambonnay)