Let's dive right into Generational Grower Champagne. Our first producer Domaine Pierre Gerbais, hails from the village of Celles-Sur-Ource in the Côte des Bar. Located to the north of Champagne, the region benefits from clay and limestone soil, which is preferential for Pinot Noir growth. Interestingly, in the river valley village of Celles-sur-Ource Pinot Blanc (one of the four "forgotten" varietals) is featured. The "rare" grape is able to resist the humidity and spring frosts known to frequent the area. It is the precise, original and masterful expression of Pinot Blanc that has established Pierre Gerbais as a pioneer in the region. The family not only holds the greatest share of Pinot Blanc (over four hectares of vines) in the region, but also the oldest, with a plot named Les Proies planted in 1904.
Next up is Brochet-Dolet from the villages of Écueil and Petite Montagne de Reims. Starting out as growers who sold their grapes to champagne merchants in the early 1900's, the family expanded their holding and began building their own champagne brand Brochet-Perseval in the 1960's. This was headed by fourth generation winegrowers Jean-Louis Brochet and Bernadette Perseval. Jean-Louis and Bernadette's son, Claude, has transformed the House into what we know it as today, taking over in 1990 with his wife Emmanuelle Dolet. Fast-forward to today, Claude and Emmanuelle's son Mathias has obtained the diploma of senior technician in viticulture and oenology. Along with his father's technical knowledge, Mathias aims to operate Brochet-Dolet on the intersection of innovation and tradition.