2009:
Domaine Marguet in the commune of Ambonnay was founded by Emile Marguet in 1875. The 10 hectare property is currently run by Benoît Marguet, who trained as a wine grower in the USA and with Mumm. The vineyard has been certified biodynamic since 2009. Benoît Marguet treats his vines with phytotherapy (the infusion and decoction of medicinal plants) and aromatherapy (use of essential oils); he also ploughs his land with horses and allows the grass to grow around the vines. In the winery, the single parcel vinification process is clean and precise and uses virtually no sulphur. The élevage is very well executed. The outcome is some very fine champagnes that are full of character and go well with food. This domain is attracting more and more champagne lovers.
The Sapience cuvée delivers very elegant aromas of white flowers and white fruit; the palate offers superb balance, cleanness, minerality and a beautiful long finish dominated by a subtle acidity and attractive bitterness.
2012
The Sapience is a remarkable project, bringing together some of the greatest terroirs and vignerons of Champagne. It’s a blend of 50% Chardonnay from David Leclappart in Trépail, 25% Pinot Noir from Benoît Lahaye in Grand Cru Bouzy and 25% Meunier from Georges Laval in Cumières. Having spent 10 months in Allier oak before bottling, and nine years on the lees, this is a wine of profound energy, expression and depth. Transcending the uniform boundaries of prestige cuvées, this one of the region’s greatest wines. Disgorged September 2021. It contains zero dosage. Drink now to 2040+.