Columns — Champagne

Wine is not just grapes; it is the meaning and essence of a winemaker’s life. Wine is not merely the result of technical actions in the cellar, but the quintessence of a vigneron’s sensations, filtered through the prism of their work in the vineyard. All of this together is what we call terroir – something we now keep trying to reduce to talent and experience, while behind it stand years of work, feeling, and an intimate understanding of wine.

An experienced sommelier cuts through the Grower Champagne hype to define the true essence of complexity in the region. Featuring a deep analysis of the factors that matter—barrel fermentation, long lees aging, and reserve wine—and a review of the legendary cuvée L’Étonnant Monsieur Victor MK.11 from Rodolphe Péters of Le Mesnil sur Oger.

A sommelier’s essential guide to defining the "best" in winemaking: evaluating the influence of price, critical study, and expert opinion. The article features insights on master producers like Olivier Collin (Champagne), Jean-Yves Bizot (Burgundy), and Louis-Michel Liger-Belair (Pinot Noir aristocracy).

After another tasting of Olivier Collin wines, I came out with so many impressions and reflections that I wanted to write them down and form my own view on the style of Champagne from this estate.