Barrat-Masson

Phylloxera had done its work thoroughly here. When Loïc Barrat took over the family estate in Bethon in 2005, the vineyards of the Sézannais had lain fallow for generations. Champagne Barrat-Masson was among the pioneers who brought this forgotten corner between Épernay and Troyes back to life – inspired by trailblazers such as Vouette & Sorbée and de Bichery in the Aube.

Today, Loïc and his wife Aurélie Masson – an oenologist and driving force behind organic certification – farm seven hectares on pure chalk. 90 per cent Chardonnay, the rest Pinot Noir. The wines mature for at least 30 months on the lees, are disgorged by hand and are bottled without dosage.