[EXPLORING OUR GRAPE VARIETIES : Le Petit Meslier]
Since many years, Petit Meslier is one of the authorized grape varieties in the Champagne appellation but represents less than 0.5% of the appellation's surface area. Thus, it is considered a "forgotten" grape variety. Today, we have decided to tell you more about it.
Its presence dates back to the Middle Ages, and its origine is from the Marne Valley. Historically, it has been found in the areas of Venteuil, Damery, and Boursault. This grape is a cross between Gouais and Savagnin.
We can recognize the Petit Meslier by the reddish color of its branches and internodes. The cluster structure is loose with slightly smaller berries reflecting copper when maturity is reached. Over time, the ancients decided to "forget" it because they considered it unproductive and too susceptible to diseases.
Petit Meslier is appreciated for its ability to bring acidity, aromatic complexity, and minerality, but be aware that the choice of terroir is a determining factor in the expression of the grape variety. Its unique aromas remain a source of inspiration and the signature of a unique typicity in Champagne that is still relatively unknown.
On our estate, we have decided to preserve this grape variety for some time now on 2 meticulously chosen parcels. Today, we are delighted to promote the diversity of historic grape varieties through 2 single vineyard cuvées : L’Enclos and Hortï.
