Champagne Ruppert-Leroy Les Cognaux Brut Nature 2022

Country: France

Region: Champagne

Type: Champagne

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

Bénédicte Leroy’s parents moved to Essoyes in 1975 and started a small farm just above the town where they previously raised sheep. In the 1980s, it was no longer economically viable, and they learned that they could plant grapes on the land. Over time, they planted four hectares in Essoyes and Noé-les-Mallets, not including the garden and small pasture they kept for their own animals. All of the grapes were sold to the local cooperative.

In 2009, when her father was about to retire, Bénédicte took over the domaine along with her husband Manu Leroy, on the condition that they could farm organically and make their own wines. Using his background in ecological construction, Manu built a straw bale winery on the family property, followed by a log-cabin home. In addition to the vineyards, Bénédicte and Manu run a small farm complete with horses, cows, sheep, and chickens, as well as grow their own grains. The winery is certified organic and biodynamic. Their quest for the simplest winemaking has lead them toward the spirit of ‘vin nature.' Each cuvée comes from a single vintage of a single vineyard and is bottled ‘brut nature’ with no dosage. Since the 2013 vintage, no sulfur is used at the winery. 

Planted 100% to Pinot Noir, Les Cognaux is located at the top of the hill with south/southeastern exposure. The word Cognaux is an old local word that means 'little corner,' as in a nice little corner of the world to grow grapes. Nuanced and expressive, with aromas of raspberry and strawberry, floral notes of rose, peony, and stone fruit. On the palate, wild strawberry and plums, with a lengthy and precise mineral-driven finish.