Pierre Gerbais Champagne Grains de Celles Extra Brut

Winemaker/Producer: Aurélien Gerbais (Pierre’s Son)

Region: Celles-sur-Ource, Côte des Bar, Department of Aube

Grape: Pinot Noir (50%), Chardonnay (25%), Pinot Blanc (25%)

Soil: kimmeregian bedrock with clay, limestone and marl

Viticulture: Certified Sustainable (AMPELOS), average vine age 30 yrs

Winemaking: Indigenous yeast fermentation in stainless steel tanks, aged on fine lees.  Reserve wine (up to 5%) added prior to second fermentation with organic yeasts.  Unfined. Unfiltered.

Aging: 30 months sur lattes

Tasting Notes: crème fraîche, apple chip, lemon pith and cardamom

For Fun: I had the chance to meet Aurélien and taste through his wines.  It’s really exciting to see the latest generation (he is in his early 30s) take over the winemaking at his family estate with finesse, and innovation.  

Link for more information:  http://www.gerbais.com/en#