R. Pouillon & Fils | Grande Vallée | Extra-Brut | Vallée de la Marne & Montagne de Reims, Champagne | 2021 Base | Biodynamic
R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards according to biodynamic principles — a commitment to the land that goes beyond organic certification, working in harmony with natural cycles to produce wines of exceptional purity, vitality, and terroir expression.
Grande Vallée — formerly known as Réserve Brut — is a compelling expression of the Vallée de la Marne through the distinctive lens of Fabrice Pouillon. The cuvée brings together fruit from across the domaine's holdings in the Vallée de la Marne and Montagne de Reims, creating a broad and detailed portrait of the estate's varied terroirs. The blend is approximately 65% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier, and 15% Chardonnay, grown on clay-limestone soils — the Pinot Noir providing structure and depth, Pinot Meunier contributing generous fruit and suppleness, and Chardonnay bringing lift, freshness, and precision.
Fermentation takes place with native yeasts in a combination of neutral barrels, small vats, and traditional enameled tanks. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is raised for approximately eight months before bottling. Since the 2019 vintage, Pouillon has employed his innovative Méthode Fabrice Pouillon across the range — using naturally sweet grape must from the estate rather than externally sourced sugar for the secondary fermentation and dosage, preserving a purer connection between the finished Champagne, its fruit, and its place of origin.
Luminous golden in the glass with an expressive, earthy bouquet. Aromas of juicy plum, ripe orchard fruit, subtle savory notes, gentle wood influence, and a faint oxidative complexity. On the palate, lighter and more energetic than the nose initially suggests — generous fruit with fine tension, firm Pinot structure, and bright, refreshing acidity. The texture is expansive yet remarkably agile, with a persistent mousse and a long, mineral-driven finish. Depth without heaviness, intensity without excess.
Excellent as an aperitif and particularly well suited to oysters, shellfish, roast poultry, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses, and savory pastries.
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Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
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Cuvée: Grande Vallée
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Style: Extra-Brut
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Appellation: Vallée de la Marne & Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
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Blend: ~65% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier, 15% Chardonnay
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Base Vintage: 2021
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Farming: Biodynamic
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Soils: Clay-limestone
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Fermentation: Native yeasts; neutral oak, small vats & enameled tanks
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Élevage: ~8 months before bottling; full malolactic fermentation
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Dosage: Estate grape must (Méthode Fabrice Pouillon)
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Bottle Size: 750ml
Critical Acclaim
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Vinous Media — 91 pts: Earthy and expansive — ripe red pepper, juicy plum and a subtle oxidative edge. Lighter and fresher than the nose suggests, with inherent juiciness, firm Pinot structure and bright acidity. Individual, expressive and surprisingly light on its feet.
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