Wine Critic
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Pierre Deville “Copin” Chardonnay Grand Cru Extra Brut 2021 is a single-vintage, single-parcel Blanc de Blancs from old-vine Chardonnay in Verzy (Montagne de Reims), made in a very pure, low-dosage, oak-aged grower style. It is intense, structured, and distinctly vinous, with fine perlage, vibrant acidity, and a clear sense of place.
Vineyard and winemaking
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100% Chardonnay from old-vine parcels in Verzy Grand Cru (Montagne de Reims), notably Les Epinettes and Les Alouettes, on limestone over chalk (“craie”).
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100% 2021 harvest (some sources reference 2020 harvest for the 2021 release), vinified entirely in oak barrels (fûts de chêne) with natural fermentation using indigenous yeasts and complete malolactic fermentation.
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Aged on lees for around 36 months, with very low dosage (about 2 g/L, effectively Extra Brut/Brut Nature) and no fining or filtration.
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Organic/biodynamic farming in conversion, with minimal intervention in the cellar.
Tasting note
Appearance: Pale gold to light straw with a fine, persistent mousse.
Nose: Complex and inviting, with glass apple, lemon oil, white peach, floral notes, light spice, and cold butter.
Palate: Medium- to full-bodied and intense, with ripe citrus and stone fruit, creamy texture from oak and lees, and vibrant acidity that keeps the wine fresh. The structure is firm but refined, with fine bubbles and a clear mineral undercurrent.
Finish: Long, savory, and mouthwatering, with lingering citrus, subtle nutty complexity, and a clean, slightly chalky close.
Style and drinking window
This is a grower Champagne for people who like serious, food-oriented Blanc de Blancs: intense, structured, and clearly terroir-driven rather than simple or aperitif-style. It is approachable now but has the depth to hold for several years in a cool cellar.
Food pairing
It pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, turbot, Dover sole, roast chicken, veal in cream sauce, and dishes with mushrooms or truffle. It also works very well with mature Comté and other hard cheeses.
