Champagne Gaspard Brochet - La Pie - Volume 6
Located in Villers-aux-Nœuds, in the heart of the Montagne de Reims, Gaspard Brochet has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting signatures of the new generation of Champagne producers. His approach is based on a rigorous parcel-by-parcel reading, where each cuvée in the "Volume" collection becomes a testimony to a terroir, a grape variety, and a vintage. Through these successive editions, the winemaker seeks to express the uniqueness of his parcels without filter thanks to low-intervention vinifications and aging methods respectful of the raw material. La Pie – Volume 6 fits into this approach by highlighting a Chardonnay from the Premier Cru terroir of Écueil, a village better known for its Pinots but capable of producing Chardonnays with great personality. This cuvée demonstrates all the richness and originality of this terroir rarely showcased from this angle. The 2023 vintage finds an expression that is both deep, saline, and particularly lively.
The La Pie cuvée in Volume 6 is made exclusively from Chardonnay coming from the lieu-dit "Les Prés Mousseux," on the Premier Cru terroir of Écueil. This parcel is distinguished by its black clay soils combined with the presence of underground water springs, an uncommon configuration that strongly influences the wine's profile. As with the other cuvées of the estate, vinification is carried out entirely by gravity to preserve the finesse of the juices and avoid any harsh handling. Fermentations and aging take place in small oak barrels, with an artisanal philosophy where the wine is neither fined, racked, filtered, nor topped up. This approach promotes the development of a complex texture and a very free expression of the terroir. Presented as Extra Brut, the cuvée retains all its natural precision and fully expresses the identity of the Chardonnay as well as the uniqueness of the 2023 vintage.
On tasting, La Pie reveals a Chardonnay that is both ample and energetic. The nose opens with notes of ripe white fruits, pear, vineyard peach, and candied citrus, accompanied by delicate floral nuances and a slightly spicy touch from the aging. On the palate, the material is generous and enveloping, supported by a mineral freshness that brings balance and depth. The black clays give the wine a particular textural dimension, while the presence of the underlying chalk contributes to tension and length. The fine bubbles accompany a saline and persistent finish that highlights the full personality of the terroir. This gastronomic Champagne will wonderfully accompany noble fish, crustaceans, creamy poultry dishes, or refined cuisine where its richness and precision can fully express themselves.
Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay