Bereche et Fils 'Rilly-La-Montagne' 1er Cru Extra Brut Millesime 2013

The 2013 “Rilly-La-Montagne” Premier Cru Extra Brut from Bérêche et Fils is a beautifully precise expression of grower Champagne, shaped by both the cool, late-ripening 2013 vintage and the domaine’s meticulous, low-intervention philosophy. Sourced from Premier Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims, the wine is farmed according to organic and biodynamic principles, though without formal certification.
Today, Bérêche et Fils is regarded as one of the most influential and sought-after grower-producers in Champagne. Under the direction of brothers Raphaël and Vincent Bérêche, the domaine has earned a cult following among collectors and sommeliers for its terroir-driven wines, meticulous vineyard work, and uncompromising cellar practices. Their Champagnes are celebrated for combining Burgundian depth and texture with the precision and energy of great Champagne, placing the estate firmly among the region’s modern elite.
Vinified parcel by parcel with indigenous yeasts and aged for around three years on the lees under natural cork before disgorgement, the wine combines remarkable freshness with texture and complexity. The nose is refined and layered, offering aromas of apricot skin, white orchard fruit, citrus oil, brioche, and crushed chalk.
On the palate, the wine is vibrant and constantly evolving, driven by a fine mousse and a strong saline mineral core. Notes of stone fruit and lemon zest give way to chalky, mouthwatering bitters and subtle hints of toasted pastry and almond. The Pinot Noir brings quiet structure and depth, while the vintage’s bright acidity preserves extraordinary tension and precision.
Now entering a beautiful stage of maturity, the 2013 “Rilly-La-Montagne” is a Champagne of purity, energy, and finesse — cerebral yet deeply expressive, and a superb example of Bérêche’s terroir-driven style.