Terre d’Irizée Extra Brut

Wine Description for Terre d’Irizée Extra Brut by Régis Poissinet

Character

Régis Poissinet belongs to that generation of grower champagne producers who work with artisanal precision and minimal dosage. His Terre d’Irizée Extra Brut, with only minimal residual sweetness, embodies a purist approach that gives space to terroir and fruit. The cuvée of Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier is an unconventional yet characterful combination that marries finesse with rustic charm – a departure from the classic Chardonnay-Pinot Noir blends of the grand houses.

Terroir & Origin

Champagne thrives on its chalky soils and cool continental climate, which gives the grapes a pronounced acid structure. Poissinet likely works in one of the region’s lesser-known vineyard sites, where Pinot Meunier traditionally plays an important role. This variety thrives particularly on the cooler, more clayey soils and brings an accessible fruitiness to the blend, whilst Chardonnay provides elegance and minerality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The combination of Chardonnay – the variety for precision and length – with Pinot Meunier, known for its soft texture and apple and pear notes, yields a champagne of unconventional structure. The Extra Brut dosage (under 6 g/l residual sugar) demonstrates Poissinet’s confidence in his base material. At 12% alcohol, the wine remains light-footed and approachable, without sacrificing complexity. Such champagnes demand careful vineyard work and precise timing at harvest.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The reduced dosage makes this champagne an ideal food companion. It harmonises beautifully with raw oysters, scallops or sashimi. It also reveals its strengths alongside goat’s cheese, smoked trout or a simple herb omelette. The combination of freshness and subtle creaminess also pairs well with roasted poultry or mushroom risotto.