2018 Ulysse Collin Les Maillons Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne 750ml

The Ulysse Collin Les Maillons Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut (Base 2018) is a benchmark of modern grower Champagne. Furthermore, it represents the absolute pinnacle of site-expressive viticulture in the Côte de Sézanne. Olivier Collin crafts each cuvée with obsessive care. Consequently, this rare allocation delivers sensational depth, energy, and vinous intensity.

Additionally, this cuvée commands legendary status among fine wine collectors worldwide. The 2018 base harvest provides exceptional richness and pure red fruit density. Meanwhile, Collin’s signature cellar regime preserves extraordinary chalky tension. Therefore, this bottle effortlessly bridges the gap between fine sparkling wine and Grand Cru white Burgundy.

Terroir & Viticulture

The Les Maillons vineyard is located in the Côte de Sézanne village of Barbonne-Fayel. Specifically, the site features heavy, iron-rich clay topsoil over soft Campanian chalk bedrock. The mature Pinot Noir vines face directly east on gentle slopes. As a result, the fruit absorbs optimal morning sunshine while maintaining vibrant natural acidity.

Meanwhile, Olivier Collin manages his soils through conscientious, organic-oriented viticulture. He ploughs every row carefully to drive vine roots deep into the chalk. Furthermore, he strictly restricts yields during the growing season. Thus, each cluster concentrates the distinct mineral signature of this singular parcel.

Vinification & Craftsmanship

In the cellar, Olivier Collin follows a purist, low-intervention winemaking philosophy. First, he presses the hand-harvested Pinot Noir gently in traditional Coquard presses. Subsequently, the unclarified must ferments spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in seasoned French oak casks. This wood fermentation builds remarkable texture and multi-layered depth.

Moreover, the base wine matures on its fine lees in barrel for an entire year. Collin then blends the 2018 harvest with perpetual reserve wines for additional complexity. Afterwards, the secondary fermentation occurs under natural cork in cool cellars. Finally, the wine rests for 36 to 48 months before a precise Extra Brut disgorgement.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, Les Maillons displays a radiant golden hue with subtle copper reflections. Immediately, the nose opens with aromas of mirabelle plum, baked red apple, and wild strawberry. In addition, savory undertones of warm brioche, crushed chalk, and dried orange peel slowly unfold with air.

On the palate, the wine feels broad, vinous, and profoundly textural. However, a vibrant spine of chalky acidity cuts cleanly through the richness. Consequently, the finish echoes with smoky minerality, raw hazelnut, and intense salinity. Ultimately, it leaves an unforgettable, bone-dry impression that lingers for minutes.

Technical Specifications

• Producer: Domaine Ulysse Collin (Olivier Collin)
• Appellation: Champagne AOC (Barbonne-Fayel, Côte de Sézanne)
• Cuvée: Les Maillons Blanc de Noirs
• Base Vintage: 2018 (blended with perpetual reserve wines)
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vinification: Spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in neutral French oak
• Aging: 12 months in oak casks, 36+ months on lees in bottle
• Dosage: Extra Brut (typically 1.0–2.4 g/L)
• Alcohol: ~12.5% ABV
• Volume: 750ml

Service & Cellar Potential

Serve this Champagne between 10°C–12°C (50°F–54°F) for maximum aromatic expression. Specifically, avoid narrow flutes and opt for broad white Burgundy or universal glasses instead. Therefore, the complex vinous nuances and stone-fruit aromatics have room to expand completely.

Pair this structured Blanc de Noirs with roasted squab, milk-fed veal chops, or aged Comté cheese. Furthermore, the 2018 base vintage possesses immense structural endurance. As a result, collectors can enjoy it today with a short decant or cellar it safely through 2038.