Grower Champagne

2016 Les Couarres Extra Brut, Chartogne-Taillet Dry | White | Sparkling | 12.5%

This 12 hectare domaine is based in Merfy, just north-west of Reims. The young Alexandre Chartogne took over the family domaine in 2006 having trained at Selosse, whose influence is seen in the way he works his vineyards. No pesticides or herbicides are used, and ploughing is done by horse. Specialising in single vineyard Champagnes, Alexandre produces eight cuvées. Antonio Galloni says his "readers will find very few growers with a deeper love of the land and all it has to say than Alexandre Chartogne." The Couarres is one of two Champagnes that Alexandre makes from the south-facing slope of sandy soils over tufa. Aged in 3-6 year old barrels. 5.5g/l dosage.

Ready: 2021 - 2031

2015 Les Orizeaux Extra Brut, Chartogne-Taillet Dry | White | Sparkling | 12.5%

Les Orizeaux is a highly-prized and sought-after cuvée from Alexandre. It is made from 100% Pinot Noir, from vines planted in 1961 on a patch of sandy soils over a limestone bedrock, just above Les Barres. The wine is aged in old oak barrels, and the red berry warmth of the fruit comes through on the creamy finish. Dosage 3.5g/l. This 12 hectare domaine is based in Merfy, just north-west of Reims. The young Alexandre Chartogne took over the family domaine in 2006 having trained at Selosse, whose influence is seen in the way he works his vineyards. No pesticides or herbicides are used, and ploughing is done by horse. Specialising in single vineyard Champagnes, Alexandre produces eight cuvées. Antonio Galloni says his "readers will find very few growers with a deeper love of the land and all it has to say than Alexandre Chartogne."

Ready: 2021 - 2031