Champagne Eric Rodez Cuvée des Crayères is a hallmark grower Champagne from the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay in the Montagne de Reims. The name Crayères refers to the ancient chalk pits used as cellars, which provide the ideal environment for aging this complex blend. As part of the Vins d'Auteur range, this cuvée showcases the blending expertise of eighth-generation winemaker Eric Rodez—a former oenologist at Champagne Krug—and his son Mickaël.

Wine Description

This wine typically displays a light golden hue with fine, persistent bubbles. The sensory profile is deeply rooted in its chalky origin:

• Aroma: The nose is complex and layered, revealing mineral and floral notes that open into red apple, strawberries, and citrus fruit, balanced by autolytic hints of brioche, toast, and honey.

• Palate: It is fresh and generous, featuring flavours of spring berries, Meyer lemons, and pink lady apples alongside a distinct, seashell-like mineral acidity.

• Body and Finish: The wine is medium- to full-bodied with a creamy, frothy mousse and a vibrant, linear structure that carries into an exceptionally long, savoury finish.

• Technical Details: The blend is consistently composed of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, sourced entirely from Grand Cru parcels. A high proportion of reserve wines (up to 70%) is used to maintain homogeneity across releases. Vinification occurs primarily in small oak barrels (80% to 90%) with partial malolactic fermentation (around 30%). The dosage is very low at 2 g/L to 2.5 g/L, classifying it as Extra Brut.

Food Pairing

The structured and vinous character of Cuvée des Crayères makes it suitable for a wide variety of pairings:

• Seafood: It is an ideal match for oysters, grilled fish, and sashimi.

• Main Courses: The wine's depth complements braised lamb shanks, roasted white meats, or herb-seasoned chicken.

• Vegetarian: It pairs excellently with butternut squash and goat cheese ravioli or dishes featuring parmesan and tomato.