Triologie KM-2 2022

The Triologie KM-2 2022 is a Brut Nature made from pure Pinot Noir, pressed white, and the middle link in a three-part terroir study. Three cuvées, produced identically, the sole difference lying in the geological subsoil. At 13.0% vol., KM-2 is dry and clear-cut, with tension and fullness held in balance.

The Côte des Bar in the southern Champagne region rests on Kimmeridgian marl and Portlandian limestone, both of Jurassic origin and rich in marine shells. The abbreviation "KM" stands for Kimméridgien: the Triologie traces the superimposed layers of one and the same slope, with KM-2 coming from the middle section of the slope. The warm, dry 2022 vintage brought ripeness and concentration.

Pure Pinot Noir from organically farmed vineyards. Spontaneous fermentation begins under temperature control, the base wines age for twelve months in 500- to 600-litre casks, which Benoît Doussot prefers over smaller vessels because they keep the wines leaner and require less sulphur. This is followed by a winter "en masse" in tank, and after the second fermentation in bottle, at least 15 months on the lees. Bottled without dosage.

Mineral tension meets richness, the perlage remains fine and lasting. Freshness and substance are in balance, the finish stays saline and dry. Roughly fifteen years of ageing potential.

Game birds take centre stage: roasted quail breast or pigeon fillet with root vegetables, as well as duck confit. For cheese, aged Comté and Époisses pair beautifully.

Benoît Doussot founded Clandestin in 2015 as a micro-négoce, buying exclusively organic grapes from eleven partner growers in southern Champagne, whom he supports through conversion and pays fairly. Since 2023 he has worked in his own winery in Landreville, built on two levels for gravity-flow vinification without pumps.