Coffret Contrées Olivier Horiot, Elise Dechannes et Mary Lamoureux (OWC if 4 bts) 2011

Elise Dechannes has raised a very high bar in Champagne since 2008. Coming from a long line of winemakers, she studied at the prestigious Reims Business School and initially worked in banking before deciding to go back to her roots in 2006. Ignoring the critics and the doubters, she has been determined and steadfast in her commitment to the environment since day one. In the unique terroir of Les Riceys in the south of the region, she vinifies with sustainability in mind at every turn. Weeding is manual, the harvest is meticulously sorted, with the entire 4.5-hectare vineyard converting to organics, while maintaining a biodynamic approach. In the winery, the winemaking process reflects this ethos, creating powerful, complex, fruity champagnes (and some still wines!) which are also mineral, lively, and vibrant. A new star in the making, we’ll be following with interest!