Champagne Dosage Zero Nature Vincent Couche

Champagne Dosage Zero is produced by the Vincent Couche maison in the southernmost part of the great bubbly area, the little Côte des Bar. We are in the land of Pinot Noir, in what is the least famous and most geographically detached area in all of Champagne. Here experienced and courageous Recoltants, at the helm of small artisanal businesses, just like Vincent, have revitalized these latter lands through productions, perhaps not so emblazoned, but of extreme quality. Vincent works the land while respecting the agricultural principles of biodynamics, which are based on an almost mystical and holistic approach to the vineyard, banning all forms of chemistry and using only natural products. Vincent also believes that only after several years of aging on the lees Champagnes are able to reveal their character. The proof is this Dosage Zero, aged for a full eight years on the lees and, as the typology suggests, unmetered, thus produced without added sugar. Despite this it still turns out smooth and flavorful, thanks not only to biodynamics but also to vinification in wooden barrels.

Dosage Zero comes from a blend of Pinot Noir, 65 percent, and Chardonnay, 34 percent. The two varieties grow on different soils: the noble red grape grows on the limestone and clay soils of Buxeuil, while the other type grows on the chalky soils of Montgueux. They are harvested slightly early to concentrate the acidity more and then gently pressed in the cellar. The must ferments in wood, without carrying out malolactic fermentation. The cuvées obtained from different vintages are masterfully blended and re-fermented in the bottle according to the Classic/Champenoise Method. A long rest of 8 years on fine lees makes it perfectly mature.

Couche's Champagne Brut Nature shows a straw yellow color, tending to golden, with a very fine and delicate perlage that almost "tickles and massages" the palate. The nose perceives aromas reminiscent of small red forest fruits, ripe citrus (orange above all), bread crust, custard, vanilla, toasted almond and a slight smoky nuance. On the palate, a creamy and soft sensation dominates, while still allowing a definite imprint of freshness and minerality to emerge. A sip that overall also shows unsuspected smoothness and roundness, despite the lack of dosage. For pairings it proves to be able to accompany appetizers, first courses, main courses of meat or fish with great class and elegance!