Coteaux Champenois Rouge, Pinot Noir, “Les Champs Chevalier”, Vrigny 1er Cru

“Les Champs Chevalier” is produced entirely from Pinot Noir planted in a clay-limestone vineyard in the Coulons’ home village of Vrigny. Like “Le Mont Moine,” this cuvée was foot-trodden, with no-destemming and no added sulfur, and it spent two years in 50% new oak before being bottled without fining or filtration. An utterly gorgeous rendering of Pinot Noir, “Les Champs Chevalier” possesses a haunting equilibrium, with acidity and tannins melding into one another perfectly, and fruit that feels as if it’s being offered lovingly on an outstretched palm.