Clos Le Village
An invitation to discover the soul of Meunier
The colour of this cuvée is luminous, with lovely golden highlights. It suggests purity and maturity. A sparkling effervescence calmly crowns this attractive presentation.
The first nose is discreet, but immediately appetizing. Almond and brioche mingle with apricot and plum. As the wine warms up, aromas of praline and light tobacco appear. The wine expresses itself with a little restraint, but with charm and complexity. Later still, as it warms, it suggests oriental spices and chestnuts.
The first impression on the palate is lively and gives the impression of a dynamic mouthfeel, but the wine quickly develops a feeling of roundness. The effervescence melts into the fine substance of the cuvée, while the dosage discreetly coats the palate. As a result, the champagne is full and caressing, and the acidic freshness develops as a counterpoint, smoothing out the balance. Thus, the texture suggests silk, and the whole expresses itself through scents of pastries and exotic fruit.
The finish is airy, delicate, subtly saline and ends on a refreshing minty bitterness, fairly typical of the year.
Summary
For the first time in its history, Maison Alfred Gratien unveils a parcel-based champagne, born from a confidential walled vineyard in the heart of Cumières, Premier Cru of the Marne Valley. Within its 19.5 ares, the Meunier grape reveals itself in all its purity and elegance, giving birth to a 100% Meunier vintage cuvée, crafted in fewer than 2,000 bottles.
Faithful to the House’s artisanal heritage, each grape was vinified under the benevolent gaze of time and angels in small oak barrels, with no malolactic fermentation, preserving the freshness and precision that define our style. The result is a champagne of rare refinement — golden, luminous, with delicate notes of almond, brioche, stone fruits and an airy saline finish, promising remarkable ageing potential.
A cuvée with a refined design to embody excellence and uniqueness, presented in its own oak box, accompanied by a precious booklet.
“Le Clos Le Village is not just a wine; it is an invitation to discover the soul of Meunier in all its purity and power.” Nicolas Jaeger, Cellar Master.
A jewel that carries within it the patient alchemy of earth, light and time — and, as always, a silent tribute to the angels’ share.
Service and suggestion
At the table, this cuvée goes perfectly with silky-textured dishes. It goes well with gougères, certain noble fish such as sole, turbot or brill, poularde de Bresse or veal, accompanied with butter or cream sauce. When it comes to cheeses, it is best paired with cooked cheeses.
Serve at a 10°C temperature in a well-curve flute.
