Mousse champagne L’Esquisse

Champagne Moussé Fils L’Esquisse: The pure expression of Meunier grown on green clay soils

The Champagne Moussé L’Esquisse cuvée serves as the technical gateway to the world of Moussé Fils, based in Cuisles. This wine, crafted with meticulous oenological precision, highlights the early ripening and fruitiness of the estate’s young vines through a blend composed mainly of Meunier.

Terroir and Expertise: A unique geological signature

Champagne Moussé L’Esquisse derives its uniqueness from a geological substrate rare in the region: green clays over limestone marl, which make up 90% of the soil in the selected plots. This terroir, specific to the villages of Cuisles, Jonquery and Châtillon-sur-Marne, favours a very distinctive varietal expression of Meunier.

The technical blend is based on 70% of the 2020 harvest, supplemented by 30% reserve wines from the 2021 vintage. The grape variety breakdown is 70% Meunier and 30% Pinot Noir. Vinification follows a strict protocol:

• Hand-harvested into market crates to preserve the integrity of the berries.
• Fullmalolactic fermentation to stabilise the acidity and give the wine structure.
• Exclusive use of artisanally produced mine sulphur, limiting external inputs.
• Ageing on lees in the cellar for an average of 18 months before disgorging.

Sensory Profile: An objective organoleptic analysis

This cuvée de vigneron presents a brilliant colour, enlivened by dynamic effervescence. The olfactory analysis reveals dominant notes of white-fleshed fruit and small red berries, characteristic of the vines’ youth and the high proportion of young vines included in the blend to promote suppleness.

On the palate, the Meunier expresses itself with a clean attack and a full-bodied texture. The mid-palate is marked by a mineral tension derived from the limestone subsoil, whilst the finish remains focused on fruity freshness. The overall structure is defined by great fluidity, making this wine technically suitable for early consumption following its time in the cellar.

Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings

To preserve the aromatic balance of L’Esquisse Sparkling Champagne, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 8°C and 10°C. Its dry, fruity profile lends itself to precise food and wine pairings, focusing on salty or vegetal textures. It pairs well with dishes featuringroasted almonds, dried fruit, or more daring combinations such as watermelon carpaccio, highlighting the liveliness of the Meunier.

Why choose this cuvée?

Champagne Moussé L’Esquisse stands out for its focus on the Marne Valley and the use of sustainable winemaking methods. The use of house-made sulphur and a focus on green clays offer an alternative and expert interpretation of champagnes from this geographical area, far removed from industrial standards. It is a cuvée of precision that prioritises the clarity of the fruit and the geological character.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the main blend of L’Esquisse Sparkling Champagne? This cuvée is composed of 70% Meunier and 30% Pinot Noir.
• What is the distinctive feature of the soil in this winemaker’s Champagne? The vineyard is situated on a terroir consisting of 90% green clay over limestone marl.
• How long is this cuvée aged in the cellar? The wine is aged on lees for an average of 18 months to ensure its vibrancy.
• Which villages do the grapes come from? The plots are located in the communes of Cuisles, Jonquery and Châtillon-sur-Marne.
• Which base vintages are used for the current blend? The current technical base consists of 70% 2020 and 30% 2021.
• What type of sulphur does Moussé Fils use? The estate uses home-made mine sulphur for a more natural winemaking process.