Domaine Paul Berthelot dates back to the 1940s, in the village of Dizy, near Epernay. The cultivation of the vines goes back further still, all the way back to 1884. Five generations have followed in the traditions laid down by founder Emile Berthelot – producing a small portfolio that has delighted us for years. The Domaine has 16 hectares spread across three vineyards: Dizy and Avenay – both classified Premier Cru, as well as Aÿ – which is classified Grand Cru. Pinot noir and chardonnay reign supreme here, with smaller amounts of pinot meunier planted too. 

We discovered this rare Blanc de Noirs at the new Berthelot Maison, back in November – and immediately begged to bring this to the USA as a special import. As pinot meunier accounts for far less of their total portfolio than either pinot noir or chardonnay, they can only make this wine in special vintages, when all the stars align perfectly…and as such, it is one of their smallest productions. This cuvee is 100% pinot meunier – all from the 2018 harvest – and sourced from the family plots in the Premier Cru sites of Dizy and Avenay’s Val D’or, in addition to some purchased fruit from Hautvillers – considered the birthplace of Champagne.

The wine spent nearly four years on the lees, before a 6 grams per liter dosage that occurred in July of 2022. Now, with nearly two years of additional integration under cork – this Blanc de Noirs is a treat – that stands as the finest wine from Paul Berthelot we’ve ever tasted! 

Taut, precise, and abounding with freshness – this wine combines the vinous tendencies of 100% meunier Champagnes with a friendly and fruity aspect. The result is a wine that is both serious and playful in equal measure — complex enough to be contemplated, yet amiable enough to delight (and disappear) in mixed company! The aromas lead with floral notes of cherry blossoms and flowering thyme, followed by delicate flavors of ripe raspberry, white cherry, and preserved lemons. A toasty brioche sensation amplifies the palate, with hints of nutty almond slivers, and a crumbled chalk minerality on the finish. Poised and fresh – this is a delightful step up from the entry-level Berthelot offerings, and we’re thrilled to be the only folks in the USA to have it!