Bernard Gaucher Brut Prestige Champagne 2019

Bernard Gaucher is a Grower Champagne, often referred to as récoltant-manipulant (RM) Champagne. Grower Champagne is crafted by producers who grow their own grapes and vinify them into wine, as opposed to large houses (négociants) that may source fruit from multiple growers across the region. With only about 2,000 grower-producers in Champagne, these wines represent a small fraction of the region's output, offering a unique perspective on the terroir.

What makes Grower Champagne special is its authenticity and individuality. Each bottle is a direct reflection of the grower’s vineyard, soil, and climate, often emphasizing a specific village or plot rather than blending grapes from multiple regions. These Champagnes are typically made in smaller quantities, allowing for meticulous attention to detail and a more artisanal approach. Grower Champagnes are prized for their diversity and ability to showcase the nuances of Champagne’s micro-terroirs, making them a favorite among sommeliers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking distinctive, terroir-driven expressions of this celebrated region.

Vintage Champagne is a special category of sparkling wine, made exclusively from grapes harvested in a single, exceptional year. Unlike non-vintage (NV) Champagne, which blends multiple years for consistency, vintage Champagne is a snapshot of a specific growing season, showcasing its unique climate, conditions, and character. Declaring a vintage is rare, as it requires near-perfect weather and grape quality, and producers must adhere to strict regulations, including extended aging on the lees for added complexity. The result is a Champagne with richer, more structured flavors, often possessing greater aging potential and a deeper connection to its terroir.

In the Côte des Bars, vintage Champagne is more common than in other parts of the region. This subregion, located in the Aube department, benefits from slightly warmer temperatures and distinctive Kimmeridgian marl soils, which contribute to ripe, expressive Pinot Noir—the dominant grape here. These characteristics lend themselves beautifully to vintage production, allowing producers to craft wines that highlight the nuances of a single year. Additionally, the Côte des Bars is home to many grower-producers who prioritize terroir-driven wines. These small-scale artisans are more likely to declare vintages in standout years to showcase their vineyards’ unique profiles. This combination of climate, soil, and grower philosophy makes the Côte des Bars a standout region for vintage Champagne enthusiasts seeking distinctive, high-quality expressions.

The Côte des Bar, located in the Aube department of southern Champagne, France, is a distinctive sub-region celebrated for its unique terroir and rich history. Unlike the more northerly areas of Champagne, the Côte des Bar features rolling hills interspersed with forests, farms, and streams, creating a picturesque landscape that differs from the densely planted vineyards of regions like the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs.

The soils here are predominantly Kimmeridgian limestone, a marl blend of limestone and clay also found in Chablis, contributing to the region's unique terroir. This soil composition, combined with a slightly warmer climate, makes the Côte des Bar particularly favorable for Pinot Noir, which dominates the vineyards, comprising around 86% of plantings. Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier are also present but to a lesser extent.

Historically, the Côte des Bar was considered a secondary zone within Champagne, with its growers primarily supplying grapes to the larger houses in the Marne department. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards artisanal, terroir-driven Champagne production, with many producers choosing to craft their own wines, highlighting the unique characteristics of the region.

This evolution has led to a renaissance in the Côte des Bar, positioning it as a dynamic and innovative area within the Champagne appellation, celebrated for its distinctive wines and commitment to quality.