Paillard unveils 2004 vintage duo

Champagne Bruno Paillard is launching two wines from the same vintage this month: the Assemblage 2004 and Blanc de Blancs 2004.

Describing 2004 as a “remarkable vintage,” owner Bruno Paillard noted its characteristic richness as a result of a “near-perfect” growing season.

The Assemblage 2004 represents a blend of nine villages with a balance of 52% Pinot Noir and 48% Chardonnay. In keeping with the house ethos of long cellar maturation and low dosage, it has spent nine years ageing before release and, although labeled “brut” contains just 5g/l sugar – a level which would qualify for extra brut status.

The Blanc de Blancs 2004 was produced from the first pressings of Paillard’s top vineyards in the Côte des Blancs. It has then spent more than eight years ageing on its lees and, like the Assemblage, has a dosage of 5g/l.

As a vocal advocate for ensuring Champagnes rest for at least three months post-disgorgement, Paillard held back the Assemblage for 12 months, while the Blanc de Blancs waited six months before release.

The new vintage releases continue Paillard’s collaborative approach with different artists for the label artwork. For the Assemblage 2004, Armenian artist Arthur Djoroukhian created a design on the theme of “Harmony, Symphony”.

Meanwhile for the Blanc de Blancs 2004, Chinese artist Chen Jiang Hong used the traditional technique of Indian ink on rice paper to interpret the theme of “Childhood dreams”.

With a production of 17,386 bottles, 978 magnums and 100 Jeroboams, the Assemblage 2004 has an RRP of £70 for a 75cl bottle. The 13,500 bottles produced of Blanc de Blancs carry an RRP of £72. Both Champagnes are available in the UK through Bibendum Wine.