Simon Rion - Miller's Tears 2022

An exceptional, almost intimate, vintage crafted by Simon Rion: a single varietal 100% Meunier from a single plot in the locality of "Noron" in Courmas. The poetic name "Larmes de Meunier" (Meunier's Tears) celebrates this often-underestimated grape, yet one capable of expressing remarkable generosity and roundness.

The plot, 50 ares of pure Meunier, benefits from respectful viticulture: mechanical soil work and natural grassing. The 2022 harvest revealed the full richness of Meunier as a single varietal – a bold gamble on Simon Rion's part, thus demonstrating the potential nobility of this grape.

Aged entirely in oak barrels (1 x 400L barrel and 2 x 228L barrels), the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and 11 months on total lees with regular stirring. This prolonged maturation in wood develops aromatic richness, remarkable roundness, and subtly integrated woody finesse. Unfiltered and unfined, this champagne remains authentic and vibrant. Disgorged on October 1, 2025, with a minimalist dosage of 1 gram as "Extra Brut," it fully releases the natural generosity of the Meunier.

Confidential production of 793 bottles. With its 12.5° alcohol, it is a unique and generous champagne – a true hymn to Meunier, where roundness and structure harmoniously intertwine. A grower's wine that restores the nobility of this grape, too often considered secondary.