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!

Pinot Noir, the dominant grape variety of this part of the Champagne region, reigns supreme across nearly five hectares. Cœur de Noirs, crafted from the 2012 harvest, is a pure and unadulterated expression of this noble grape, born from the ‘Champ Méchain’ parcel. The winemaker embraces organic viticulture, favouring manual weeding and selective harvesting. Upon arrival in the winery, the grapes are gently pressed and vinified in stainless steel vats with native yeasts and no inputs.
This pure Pinot Noir reveals an elegant bouquet of white flowers, accented by citrus and delicate mirabelle plum. On the palate, it opens with a crisp and lively attack, leading to a fleshy, creamy and well-structured mid-palate, culminating in a long refreshing finish. A superb expression of Pinot Noir, magnified by the winemaker’s distinctive touch.