Vincent Cuillier, [2018] L’Arbre Blanc de Noirs, Brut Nature


Producer


Region

FranceChampagneMontagne de Reims

Appellation

Champagne, Brut Nature

Cuvée

L'Arbre

Varietal

Pinot Meunier

Farming

Low/No Sulfur Vinification, No/Low till, regenerative viticulture

Vinification

Aged in bottle before release, Enamel or glass lined tank fermented & aged, Estate grown grapes, Hand harvested, Indigenous yeast fermented, Low Sulfur Vinification & Aging, Non-certified organically grown grapes, Unfined & Unfiltered, Zero Dosage

Soil Type

Chalky Limestone, Sandy loam

L’Arbre is about pride of place for Vincent Cuillier. It is the family’s most historic parcel and where he began his explorations in natural viticulture and vitiforestry. The name “L’Arbre” (Tree) is a nod to his extensive work planting trees and increasing biodiversity. This 100% Meunier is exclusively made as a zero-dosage vintage Champagne. The depth and complexity of the wine speaks to Cuillier’s dedication and deft hand in the vines and cellar.
From the single parcel of Les Voyets in the Marne village of Pouillon, this is the Cuillier family’s most historic vineyard.
As befitting a fine 100% Pinot Meunier wine from this region, this shows plump forward berry fruit notes kept in line by crisp acidity and fine complex mineral based lines.
Indigenous yeast fermentation takes place in small stainless steel tank, followed by a full year of tank aging. This vintage cuvée spends the requisite 36 months sur lattes and sees no fining or filtration before being disgorged by hand with zero dosage.