Champagne Magnum of CHASSENAY D’ARCE champagne Brut Cuvée Première

Chassenay d’Arce Brut Cuvée Première Magnum: The Expression of the Arce Valley

The Magnum of Chassenay d’Arce Brut Cuvée Première Champagne is the historic signature of this winemakers’ house located in the heart of the Côte des Bar. This non-vintage cuvée expresses the specific geological and climatic identity of the Arce Valley, through a precise blend and a bottle size that encourages slow aromatic development.

Terroir and Expertise

The production of this Brut Champagne is based on a rigorous selection of plots situated on Kimmeridgian-era soils, composed of calcareous marl and clayey limestone. The blend is predominantly Pinot Noir (around 60%), complemented by Chardonnay and a touch of Pinot Meunier, including a proportion of reserve wines to ensure consistency in the analytical profile.

Vinification is carried out using the traditional method, with fermentation taking place exclusively in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the integrity of the primary aromas and the mineral freshness of the must. Malolactic fermentation is carried out systematically. Ageing on the lees in the bottle lasts for a minimum of three years in the House’s cellars, allowing for optimal yeast autolysis prior to disgorgement.

Sensory Profile

Visual examination reveals a deep golden colour, enlivened by a steady effervescence and fine-grained bubbles. The Magnum format (1.5L) lends this wine remarkable brilliance and colour retention.

The olfactory profile is characterised by a technical intensity combining notes of pome fruit (apple, pear) with hints of nuts and white flowers. Upon aeration, notes of development associated with prolonged ageing, such as brioche and toast, add to the bouquet’s complexity.

On the palate, the attack is clean and structured. The dominant Pinot Noir provides a vinous backbone and a tactile fullness, whilst the integrated acidity ensures a persistent tension. The finish is marked by a lingering aroma of ripe fruit and a slight salty note characteristic of the limestone subsoil.

Serving Advice

For optimal organoleptic appreciation, this champagne should be served at a constant temperature between 8°C and 10°C. A temperature that is too low would mask the complexity of the cuvée, whilst a temperature that is too high would accentuate the perception of alcohol.

In terms of food pairing, this wine is well-suited to accompany dishes featuring river fish, poultry in a creamy sauce, or hard-rind cheeses such as matured Comté. Its structure also makes it a good match for fine charcuterie.

Why choose this cuvée?

Choosing the Magnum format of Champagne Chassenay d’Arce offers a major technical advantage: the greater volume of liquid relative to the surface area for gas exchange slows down the wine’s gentle oxidation. The result is a superior balance between the freshness of youth and the complexity of maturity. This is a benchmark bottle for lovers of Côte des Bar wines seeking an authentic expression of the Pinot Noir grape on limestone soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the sugar dosage for this cuvée? This is a Brut Champagne, with a dosage generally between 8 and 9 grams per litre, ensuring a balance between acidity and roundness.
• Why choose the Magnum format? The Magnum is considered by oenologists to be the ideal container for ageing Champagne, promoting a finer effervescence.
• What are the dominant grape varieties? The blend features Pinot Noir as the main variety, complemented by Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.
• How long can this bottle be kept? This wine is ready to drink upon release but can be stored in a cellar (in the dark at a stable temperature) for 3 to 5 years.
• Does this champagne contain reserve wines? Yes, the inclusion of reserve wines helps to maintain the technical style of Maison Chassenay d’Arce from one year to the next.
• Where does this champagne come from? It is made exclusively from grapes grown in the Vallée de l’Arce vineyard, located in the southern part of Champagne.