In Chigny-les-Roses, a village in the Montagne de Reims, Arnaud and Sophie Gounel have chosen to become grower-producers to craft wines that truly express their terroir.
Arnaud, a slightly unconventional winemaker who skates through the vineyards, would surprise anyone stepping into his cellar. Despite his playful approach, this “wine rider” is meticulous and deeply passionate about the land when it comes to making his champagnes. This passion has led him to adopt sustainable viticulture practices. Most of his cuvées are predominantly single-vineyard, barrel-fermented, and aged on natural cork. To allow the wine to express itself freely and reveal its full character, Arnaud has chosen not to dose his wines. Gounel-Lassalle champagne rides perfectly in tune with modern trends!
This is clearly exemplified in his cuvée Haut Belai, harvested in 2018, where the wine blends the fruity notes of Pinot Noir (50%) with the chalky hints of Chardonnay (50%). Originating from a plot in Ludes, with a chalky subsoil and an intermediate layer of clay with flint, this non-dosage cuvée underwent vinification in large oak casks and barrels, which enhance the wine’s fruitiness and minerality, highlighting its Premier Cru status.
Color: pale yellow, sparkling and clear, with subtle green reflections.
Nose: fresh and intense, with delicate hints of honeysuckle, acacia, apple, and pear, evolving into comforting aromas of biscuit, buttered bread, roasted almonds, and roasted pineapple. The oak blends seamlessly into a complex and refined aromatic palette.
Palate: smooth, fresh, and dense, with notes of bergamot and grapefruit. Creamy mousse accompanied by a beautiful acidity. The chalk and flint terroir enhances a crisp and savory finish.
Pairing: langoustine ceviche with passion fruit and lime zest.
Comment: a true gastronomic champagne.
Château Petit Val is the story of two wine lovers, Jean-Louis and Olivia Alloin, who decide to return to their roots by investing in a Bordeaux vineyard.
