Last week in Sydney, G.H. Mumm hosted a dinner to launch its new Vintage Collection, introducing three new vintage cuvées – including the much-anticipated RSRV Lalou 2013. The event and its featured trio celebrated the Maison’s nearly 200-year legacy of unwavering dedication to excellence.
The launch was set uniquely in Australia’s oldest and most beautifully designed butchery, Victor Churchill, which was established in 1876. Guests were welcomed by G.H. Mumm Brand Ambassador Andrea Giraud and Victor Churchill owner Anthony Puharich, who brought humour and passion to the introduction of each cuvée and its paired course. Seated along a communal table that stretched through the elegant butcher shop, attendees enjoyed a feast for the senses, with beautifully presented produce showcased both in the surroundings and on their plates.
But the true stars of the evening were the new vintages: RSRV Lalou 2013, RSRV Blanc de Noirs 2018, and Mumm Millésimé 2016. René Lalou, after whom the Lalou cuvées are named, joined Maison Mumm’s Board in 1920 and served as its visionary leader for nearly 50 years. Deeply committed to terroir and quality, he revitalized the vineyards, acquired prized Grand Cru parcels, and linked Mumm’s heritage with the arts through collaborations with renowned painters. His philosophy resonates with Georges Hermann Mumm’s iconic motto: “Only the best.” Created in his honour, the original Cuvée René Lalou was produced in just nine vintages between 1966 and 1985. Revived in 2007 with the 1998 vintage, and continued today with RSRV Lalou 2013, it celebrates his enduring influence.
The RSRV range, historically reserved for insiders of the Maison, includes five 100% Grand Cru cuvées crafted for true connoisseurs. It began with a Blanc de Noirs from Verzenay – long known as one of Champagne’s finest crus. The latest release, RSRV Blanc de Noirs 2018, captures the unique character of its terroir, expressing what Maison Mumm calls “The Sense of Place.” As explained by Brand Ambassador Andrea on the night: “Verzenay holds a special place of significance as it is where G.H.Mumm sourced grapes for its first vintage cuvées in 1842. The Mumm Millésimé 2016 is the House’s latest vintage release, showcasing its signature Pinot Noir–driven style.
- RSRV Lalou 2013: The Lalou is produced in very limited quantities only in exceptional vintages. 2013 was a cool vintage with a late cycle, and this cuvée from grand crus in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs is elegant and refined, with lemon rind, vanilla and ginger on the palate and a generous finish.
- RSRV Blanc de Noirs 2018: Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes grown on the pure, Grand Cru slopes of Verzenay, this release deftly walks a line between delicateness and vibrancy. Consistent with the 2018 vintage, the cuvée is already exhibiting impressive approachability. On the palate, expect notes of lime zest alongside layers of candied and stewed fruits.
- Mumm Millésimé 2016: 2016 in Champagne had a challenging start but revealed an exceptional harvest. This release is a tribute to the Pinot-Noir driven house style, but balances the power and depth of Pinot Noir with the elegance and freshness of Chardonnay, exhibiting a decadent palette with dried and honeyed stone fruit with a subtle but pleasing smokiness on the palate.
Fine wine lovers will be pleased to learn that the new vintage collection is now available in Australia.
Our tip:
Pair the RSRV Lalou 2013 with a Wagyu rump cap – the unexpected pairing at the event worked very well indeed!
