This racy Champagne is made from 100% Pinot Noir. Red fruits and spice mingle with floral aromas and a refined texture. It drinks rich and deserves a big Burgundy glass, with ample time for reflection. Serve with ripe, full-bodied cheeses, lamb, game, or savory foods.

In the village of Ville-sur-Arce, Jérôme Coessens owns one of the largest and most sophisticated press houses in his region servicing many local growers who sell to the large negotiants. He also owns a tiny, but exceptional, monopole over Kimmeridgian marl (calcareous clay-based soil) that is nearly identical to that found in the best vineyards of Chablis. The only difference it is planted exclusively with Pinot Noir. From his vineyard, Largillier, he makes a miniscule amount of his own wine that puts the Burgundy concept back into Champagne. The clay topsoil adds power and richness to the wine while the marl retains a mineral grip.