Champagne Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs extra brut Les Prés Dieu 2022

Crafted from the 2022 vintage and disgorged in August 2024 without dosage, Sergent’s NV Blanc de Blancs Prés de Dieu originates from two northeast-facing parcels: Les Prés in Vrigny and Les Vignes Dieu in Coulommes-la-Montagne, both defined by sandy soils. Vinified in 400- and 500-liter barrels, it wafts from the glass with a bouquet of grapefruit zest, white flowers and crisp green apple. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, tensile and luminous, with a piercing spine of acidity, a youthful and chiseled core and a long, saline finish. It is the tautest, most linear expression in Sergent’s range—a study in purity.

Following his tenure at Maison Louis Roederer from 2004 to 2005, Guillaume Sergent took over his family's small, two-hectare estate in 2008. However, it took him several years to rejuvenate the vineyards, finally producing his first wines in 2011. The majority of his vines are situated in Vrigny, with the remainder in Coulommes-la-Montagne.

Committed to organic farming, Sergent cultivates his vineyards using a combination of horse and tractor. However, like many in the region, he applies treatments to combat mildew when necessary. His estate comprises 16 parcels, predominantly on sandy soils. Half of the vineyard is planted with Pinot Meunier, some of which is ungrafted, while the rest is divided between Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He follows the lunar calendar for pruning and, weather permitting, also for determining harvest dates.

Given the small scale of his operation, Sergent currently lacks a dedicated winemaking facility or press. Instead, he presses his grapes at the local cooperative, where he also stores his barrels. However, this aspect of production is set to change in 2025, as he plans to relocate his barrels to his own home. Despite using the cooperative’s press, he retains full control over his fruit, ensuring that each parcel is pressed separately. Fermentation occurs with native yeasts, and malolactic fermentation typically follows. Vinification takes place over seven months on the lees in secondhand barrels sourced from Burgundy and Champagne, primarily 228, 400 and 500 liters, depending on the cuvée. Sulfites are usually added only after pressing. His Champagnes are bottled at a slightly lower pressure—typically five atmospheres rather than the standard six.

These are generously structured and vinous Champagnes, characterized by tension and an incisive spine of acidity. These are reliable choices, however, with a mere 8,000 bottles produced in a favorable year, securing a bottle is no easy feat.

Published: May 08, 2025 by William Kelley