Yann Alexandre, "Sous-Les-Roses," Blanc de Noirs, 2017

Yann Alexandre is the eighth generation of his family to grow vines in the Montagne de Reims and the third to make Champagne there. He and his wife, Seìverine, share a passion for horticulture that directly informs their viticulture. “We grow the vineyard like a garden,” Yann explains. This is a high bar for two farmers working 6.3 hectares spread over 28 plots in nine villages, but it is essential to their philosophy. “I always try to put forward the characteristics of each plot of land and to reach perfect grape maturity and health,” says Yann. Vitality is achieved through intensive hand work and regenerative practices to which the Alexandres have been dedicated since 1999. As throughout the Petite Montagne, Pinot Meunier is the star, supported by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; the grapes are matched to soils of calcareous clay, white marls, stones, and flint. Yann declares his aim is “as natural a Champagne as possible,” made from vital grapes, with minimal added sulfites, up to seven years lees aging, hand riddling and disgorgement, and “no detail left to chance.”