Tendil & Lombardi

Laurent Tendil and Stéphane Lombardi are childhood friends and Champagne obsessives from Lyon. Inspired by the rise of Champagne’s small producer, the duo—who’ve spent their careers in the fields of wine, dreamed of creating their own, namesake Champagne.

In 2007, they each left their jobs and took a leap to pursue their dream. Four years later, their first cuvée hit the market. The result was a shower of 90-plus ratings from some of the world’s most prestigious wine critics—an astonishing feat for these brash newcomers.Tendil & Lombardi artisan Champagne comes from the up and coming Côtes des Bars. Tendil & Lombardi represents the contemporary side of Champagne. This prestigious French region has been dominated for centuries by a few large, prominent Champagne houses. Known as the Grandes Marques—literally, “big brands”—these mega-producers of Champagne have been joined in recent decades by an upstart generation of small labels.

Apple, pear and toasty lees on the nose, with notes of anise and dried, rose adding complexity. Dry and gripping on the palate, offering firm, refreshingly bitter redcurrant and orchard fruit flavors and a hint of blood orange.

Shellfish

Crab

Lobster

Grape variety: Pinot Noir

Region: Champagne, France

Subregion: Aube

Appellation: Champagne

Vintage year: NV

Alcohol by volume: 12.0%

Winestate Australia Best of Style 2013

Wine Enthusiast: 91pts

Wine Spectator: 90pts

Stephen Tanzer: 90pts