Champagne Hélène Charbaut - Les Pinailleuses 2022
Based in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Hélène Charbaut is precisely developing her estate by enhancing a mosaic of terroirs located in Bisseuil, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and Avenay-Val-d’Or. Since 2020, she has been building a range of single-vineyard and identity-driven champagnes, where each cuvée reflects a personal interpretation of the vintage and Champagne grape varieties. With Les Pinailleuses 2022, she offers a particularly accomplished interpretation of Pinot Noir, through a demanding selection of her best barrels. This cuvée embodies a sensitive and intuitive approach, where the final choice relies as much on tasting as on technique. Produced in only 2,551 bottles, it fits within an artisanal and confidential logic, intended for lovers of characterful champagnes. It also reflects the increasing precision and confidence in Hélène Charbaut’s work.
Les Pinailleuses 2022 is a blend of Pinot Noir from several complementary terroirs: Bisseuil, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and Avenay-Val-d’Or, with vines averaging 47 years old. The clay-limestone soils provide balance and depth, while the selection of juices exclusively from the cuvée guarantees finesse and quality of extraction. Vinification is carried out in 2.28 hl oak barrels, followed by aging on lees for ten months, allowing the wine to be structured while developing its complexity. This cuvée corresponds to a selection of the winemaker’s preferred barrels for this vintage, giving it a particularly qualitative and expressive dimension. The wine is unfiltered, thus retaining all its substance and energy. Information regarding exact dosage, possible use of sulfur, or viticulture methods is not specified and would deserve confirmation for a fully comprehensive technical sheet.
On tasting, Les Pinailleuses 2022 offers a deep and nuanced Pinot Noir, blending aromas of ripe red fruits, black cherry, and raspberry, accompanied by spicy, lightly toasted, and sometimes floral notes. The palate is ample and structured, with generous substance supported by well-integrated freshness that brings balance and length. The fine bubbles highlight the wine’s texture without masking its vinous dimension, while the persistent and slightly saline finish extends the aromas with precision. This cuvée pairs particularly well with gastronomic dishes, notably red meats, sauced dishes, or refined cuisine. It will charm lovers of powerful and elegant champagnes, seeking a refined expression of Pinot Noir in an artisanal approach.
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir