Côte de Val Vilaine Blanc de Noirs is one of the most distinctive cuvées from Cédric Bouchard, a benchmark grower-producer known for his uncompromising, terroir-driven approach to Champagne. Produced under the Roses de Jeanne label, this wine comes from a single lieu-dit in the Vallée de la Seine, planted exclusively with Pinot Noir.
The 2017 vintage reflects Bouchard’s exacting standards: very low yields, late harvesting for full ripeness, and a minimalist cellar approach. Fermented with native yeasts and bottled without dosage, this Blanc de Noirs is produced in extremely limited quantities, allowing the purity of the terroir to take center stage.
Vinified as a still, precise expression of place, Côte de Val Vilaine is fermented with native yeasts, bottled without dosage, and produced in very small quantities. Bouchard’s philosophy focuses on extremely low yields, ripe harvesting, minimal intervention, and extended ageing, resulting in a Champagne of remarkable purity and tension.
Tasting notes
In the glass, it shows a pale golden hue with fine, discreet bubbles. The nose is pure and restrained, offering aromas of red apple, pear, citrus peel, and subtle spice, with a strong mineral undertone. On the palate, it is taut, linear, and precise, with chalky texture, saline freshness, and a long, focused finish. The absence of dosage highlights the wine’s structure and terroir expression.
Pairs well with
Côte de Val Vilaine Blanc de Noirs 2017 pairs beautifully with oysters, shellfish, crudo or lightly cured fish, and simply prepared veal or poultry. Its precision and restraint also make it an excellent companion to minimalist, ingredient-driven cuisine.
Producer
Cédric Bouchard, France, Champagne
Cédric Bouchard is a pioneering grower-producer in Champagne, known for his terroir-focused, minimalist approach. Operating under the Roses de Jeanne label, he works exclusively with his own vineyard plots, emphasising low yields, hand harvesting, and native yeast fermentation. Bouchard avoids filtration and uses little to no dosage, allowing the true character of each vineyard and vintage to shine. His Champagnes are small-production, highly sought-after, and celebrated for their purity, precision, and intellectual elegance, earning him a reputation as one of the most important voices in grower Champagne today.
