Cédric Bouchard - Roses de Jeanne - Côte de Val Vilaine - VV/R23
Located in Celles-sur-Ource, in the Côte des Bar, Cédric Bouchard is considered one of the most influential and perfectionist winemakers of contemporary Champagne. Through his estate Roses de Jeanne, he has profoundly marked the world of terroir champagnes by developing a radical approach: one plot, one grape variety, one year, one cuvée. His meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar aims to faithfully convey the identity of each named place. The Côte de Val Vilaine cuvée is one of the estate's historical references and often represents the ideal entry point into the universe of this exceptional winemaker. Produced from a single 1.42-hectare plot planted over forty years ago, it perfectly illustrates the philosophy of precision and purity that characterizes Roses de Jeanne. Each bottle is thus conceived as a true photograph of its terroir and vintage.
The Côte de Val Vilaine VV/R23 cuvée is made exclusively from Pinot Noir from the named place "Val Vilaine," a plot of old vines about 40 years old. The R23 label indicates that a significant portion of reserve wines from the 2023 vintage compose this blend, offering a particularly accomplished expression of this harvest. True to his style, Cédric Bouchard vinifies this micro-plot separately to preserve its own identity. The aging is done exclusively in stainless steel tanks, without the use of wood, to fully express the purity of the fruit and the precision of the terroir. This approach highlights the natural finesse of Pinot Noir and the delicacy brought by the age of the vines. Disgorged in 2026, this cuvée continues the quest for transparency and accuracy that has made the estate renowned. The vineyard management is carried out according to biodynamic principles, respecting the natural balances of the vine and soil.
On the palate, Côte de Val Vilaine VV/R23 reveals a particularly refined expression of Pinot Noir from the Côte des Bar. The nose opens with gourmand notes of stone fruits, fresh cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant, accompanied by delicate floral nuances that bring elegance and complexity. The palate combines breadth and precision, with a silky texture supported by a beautiful mineral tension that extends the tasting. The fine bubbles contribute to the overall impression of finesse and balance, while the finish reveals a remarkable saline persistence. Behind its apparent delicacy hides a champagne of great depth, capable of evolving beautifully over the years. At the table, it will ideally accompany grilled prawns, anis-flambéed shrimp, or refined seafood preparations where its freshness and precision can fully express themselves.
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir