Jacques Selosse, 'La Cote Faron,' Ay, Blanc de Noirs, Grand Cru, Extra Brut, Champagne, France, NV

Overview of the Wine
Anselme’s parents carried out their first vinification in 1964. Ten years later Anselme was given the keys to the domain. He thus began his professional career with what would become a lifelong process of observation, trial and error and contemplation in regards to his viticultural methods and practices. This empirical approach to viticulture and vinification is perhaps his most remarkable trait as a winegrower.

From 1990 to 1996 the principles of agro-biology were applied in the vineyards, from 1996 his focus turned to bio-dynamics. In 2002 Anselme distanced himself from the bio-dynamic doctrine, defying the usual codes and processes as he did not wish to have any hand in influencing nature. The thoughts and reflections of Masanobu Fukuoa and permaculture had begun to inspire him and subsequently the attention he pays to the vines and the wine.

For the last twenty years, the Selosse family has developed its own system of viticulture which is an approach that follows no set method, but rather permanently adapts itself to the circumstances confronted throughout the growing season in the various vineyard plots. In order to explain their philosophy pertaining to the vines, Anselme and Guillaume often make references to “gatherers”, those who venture out into nature to reap the harvest and collect the fruit found there:

« “Primum non nocere”. First, do no harm…The Hippocratic Oath…“It is man who perturbs nature the most thus one must refrain from intervening as often as possible ».

As the time draws near to pass the keys to the next generation at Domaine Jacques Selosse, Anselme and Corinne’s son, Guillaume, has, since 2012, been preparing to follow in his father’s footsteps. During the time spent working side by side with his father, he has naturally been developing his own viticultural skills and inclinations which will most certainly lend a unique identity to the wines in the future. The transition and transmission in motion at the domain may be likened to a relay race where the athletes are handing off the baton; the baton of passion for wine, vines and fine food and drink. With great integrity, open-mindedness and vigor, Guillaume is readying himself to leave his own mark upon the family history of dreams, ambition and charisma that are his alone.

Winemaker
Guillaume Selosse

Grape / Blend
Pinot Noir

Origin
Champagne, France

Tasting Notes 
La Côte Faron is part of the Lieux-dits collection of Maison Jacques Selosse. It is a Blanc de Noirs Champagne (100% Pinot Noir) from the Village of Aÿ, classified Grand Cru. A great Cuvée of gastronomy with remarkable power, elegance and structure.

98 Points - James Suckling
Spanning 2010-1994 this is a steeper site in Aÿ with less clay than Ambonnay. It shows bright and elegant red berry fruit aromas of strawberries and raspberries. The palate is quite svelte and elegant but possesses phenomenal power and tangy, sapid appeal. The finish holds fine with mineral-flecked grapefruit flavors. The nose speaks more to the grape, the palate to the terroir. A fascinating and brilliant Champagne. Drink now.

96 Points - Vinous
The NV (2012) Aÿ La Côte Faron is a Champagne of total and pure sensuality. It is also much more open than the Ambonnay. In the glass, the Côte Faron is ample and resonant, with tons of textural resonance, the main signature of Pinot from Aÿ. Soft contours and pretty aromatics round things out in style. I have always had a weak spot for La Côte Faron. This is another superb showing. Dosage is 3.5 grams per liter. (AG)

Product size: 750ml