The Chartogne-Taillet Cuvée Les Barres 2020 (Disgorged April 2025) is a beautifully distinctive and intensely site-driven single-vineyard Champagne from one of the Montagne de Reims’ most respected grower producers. Produced entirely from Pinot Meunier grown in the Les Barres parcel in Merfy, the wine highlights Alexandre Chartogne’s terroir-focused philosophy, combining low-intervention winemaking with remarkable precision and vineyard transparency. The nose reveals baked apple, ripe pear and blood orange layered alongside dried herbs, brioche and subtle smoky mineral notes, giving the wine impressive depth and individuality.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with exceptionally fine mousse, vibrant natural acidity and a tightly structured mineral core. Layers of orchard fruit, citrus peel and savoury lees complexity are balanced by saline freshness and gentle Meunier richness, finishing long, dry and beautifully persistent with outstanding texture and finesse. The warm yet balanced 2020 vintage contributes additional concentration and breadth while preserving freshness and mineral tension throughout.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Chartogne-Taillet Cuvée Les Barres 2020 is a superb single-vineyard grower Champagne — vinous, mineral and beautifully expressive with remarkable texture and complexity. Perfect with roast poultry, mushroom dishes, scallops, charcuterie or aged hard cheeses. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar gracefully through 2042+.
