No.1 ‘Cuvée Remy’ Vintage 2013
Grape Varietals: 55% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir & 10% Pinot Meunier
Growing Region: Marlborough - New Zealand
Owner / Chef de Cave: Daniel Le Brun, No.1 Family Estate
Disgorged: August 2018 - *(Limited: 1650 bottles)
I have been visiting the Champagne region of France since 1993, and in 1996 was invited to join my first Vin-Clair tasting panel. Since then, I have worked behind the scenes with more than half a dozen of the great Champagne Houses. So I can say, with some clarity, that I know a little about what makes a sparkling wine truly sing. And the wines diligently crafted here in Marlborough by Daniel and assisted by Lee Dobson (winery manager) are some of the best in the world.
Thankfully for wine lovers here in New Zealand and selected market around the world, the Le Brun family have not ‘actioned’ this next observation - ‘they could easily ask twice as much for their wines’, as they can stand confidently side-by-side with quality wines of Champagne. So yes, we can enjoy their character filled wines on more frequent occasions.
On Friday the 5th of December 2025, the following 2013 Vintage Cuvée Remy was launched. Named after Remy the son of Adele and Daniel, and crafted in only truly exceptional years. Cuvée Remy was first released to celebrate Remy’s 21st birthday, and the 2013 vintage marks only the second edition. A testament to articulate precision and the artistry behind quality Méthode Traditionelle, this vintage cuvée honours the Le Brun family’s Champagne heritage.
2013 was an exceptional year, and this release showcases those family connections and displays a defined sophistication. According to Daniel, the 2013 vintage in Marlborough delivered pristine fruit, vibrant acidity and remarkable purity. Qualities essential for the wine’s extended ageing with depth, palate engagement and elegant signoff. The label features a hand-sketched interpretation of the Le Brun family crest, adding a personal touch to a vintage cuvée developing an individual legacy.
★ You are greeted by a nashi pear gold colour and fine bead. Alluring aromas of peach skin, almond marzipan, mild citrus and millefeuille pastry notes. The elegant though self-assured medium weight palate gently introduces an orchestra of flavours as your senses glide across the stage revealing new highlights. Mandarin and candied lemon peel, ginger, ripe peaches and apples are all kept on point by a calmly spoken level of fruit acidity. This wine has a beguiling charm and harmonious engagement, judicious to its maturity and an elegant decrescendo that leaves you wanting more. At its peak of performance and something not to be missed by those in the know.
This No.1 ‘Cuvée Remy’ Vintage 2013 has 12.5% Alc./vol. Crafted in a ‘Brut’ Style - with 6g/L residual sugar. Chill gently and serve in a voluptuous flute or aromatic shaped wine glass at 8º- 9ºC. • *NZ$129
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 12/12/25)
Performing at its peak this season; plus, it should hold for another 2 - 3 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with crayfish w/ lemon & mild mustard mayonnaise, tempura calamari, crab & red-pepper fettuccini, crumbed fish, creamy Tuscan gnocchi, freshly made seafood salads, or a slice of apple tart served cool with fresh vanilla cream - enjoy.
