Gaspard Brochet - The Sheep

"Le Mouton" is a unique expression of Meunier, an often-overlooked grape variety that is capable of great things when vinified with respect and patience. Crafted by Gaspard Brochet of Domaine Les Croix, this pure Meunier champagne comes from the premier cru Écueil, more precisely from the "La Montagne" climate, a terroir composed of white clay and green loam. Le Mouton, a symbol of gentleness and rural nature, perfectly embodies the round and generous character that this grape can offer in the hands of a passionate winemaker.

Meunier, traditionally relegated to a supporting role in Champagne blends, reveals its full depth here when given the attention it deserves. On the clay and loam soils of Écueil, it develops a natural roundness, a particular succulence of red fruits, and a fine but present minerality. Whole cluster and destemmed maceration, followed by gravity-fed vinification in oak barrels, unfined, undecanted, and unfiltered, allows the wine to retain all its raw material and natural complexity.

On the palate, Le Mouton seduces with its balanced elegance and generosity. The deep ruby-hued color of the Meunier indicates good concentration without heaviness. The Extra Brut allows the full flavor of the Écueil terroir to express itself, with fleshy notes of ripe red fruits, red flowers, discreet spices, and a beautiful underlying minerality. This is a champagne best enjoyed calmly, with dishes that respect its generous and delicate nature.