La Pluchotte Rosé Extra Brut 2023

A pale, transparent rosé Champagne that is open and red-fruited from the very first nose: raspberry, pomegranate and redcurrant, alongside grapefruit, a touch of red pomelo and a hint of biscuit. A slightly mellow note lends depth to the vivid fruit, while a tart-fruity edge already hints at what follows on the palate.

Vincelles lies on the southern bank of the Marne, about 20 kilometres west of Épernay. The vines stand on south- and southwest-facing plots over clay, limestone and limonite. The Blin family has been growing grapes here since 1671; Jérôme Blin farms his six hectares according to biodynamic principles, ploughing is done by the two Comtois draft horses Naya and Quartz, and a sheep keeps the grass between the rows short.

Pinot Meunier from vines over 50 years old, hand-harvested and vinified in stainless steel tanks as well as in used red-wine barrels. The base wine comes essentially from the 2023 harvest, tirage took place in April 2024, and disgorgement in October 2025.

Airy and juicy, with an initially lively, foaming perlage. Redcurrant, raspberry and rhubarb meet pomelo, a touch of cassis and blackberry. Sage and further herbal notes, together with a bitter note reminiscent of Campari, set up the tart-fruity contrast. Firmness and freshness are present, yet the wine stays dry and light-footed.

Each plot is vinified separately, single vineyard rather than blend, fermentation proceeds spontaneously with wild yeasts. As an Extra Brut, the dosage stays minimal. The aim is not great concentration but freshness, spice and drinkability.