Coteaux Champenois

What is Coteaux Champenois?

While Champagne is globally famous for its sparkling wines, the region historically produced still wines long before the discovery of secondary fermentation in the bottle. Today, the Coteaux Champenois appellation allows winemakers to keep this ancient tradition alive. Because most grapes are reserved for sparkling Champagne, still wines are produced in minuscule quantities. They are usually Pinot Noir-based red wines from top Grand Cru villages like Aÿ or Bouzy, or crisp, mineral-driven white wines from Chardonnay.

Wine Styles and Tasting Notes

• Red Wine (Pinot Noir): Displays a pale, translucent ruby color. Driven by the cool climate, it stands out with brisk acidity, a light body, and highly elegant aromas of raspberries, wild cherries, strawberries, and peonies. It is an incredibly delicate and earthy wine.
• White Wine (Chardonnay): A highly crisp and tense wine that dazzles with notes of white flowers, apples, chalky minerality, and citrus.

Gastronomic Pairings

With its pronounced acidity and delicate body, Coteaux Champenois is a refined partner for food. The red wines pair flawlessly with light poultry, quail dishes, pâtés, or veal tartare. The white wines are an ideal match for fresh oysters, white fish, and soft goat cheeses. It also serves as a phenomenal, highly exclusive gift for Champagne lovers looking to expand their horizons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Coteaux Champenois a sparkling wine?

No. Coteaux Champenois is the official Champagne appellation dedicated exclusively to still (non-sparkling) wines. If you are looking for sparkling wine, you should choose Champagne AOC.

Can these wines be aged?

Yes. Despite their lighter body, the excellent natural acidity allows top-quality red Coteaux Champenois to evolve gracefully in the cellar for 5 to 10 years, often developing similarities to mature Burgundy wines.

At what temperature should it be served?

To highlight its delicate nature and freshness, serve the red Coteaux Champenois slightly chilled at around 14–15 °C (57–59 °F). The white wine should be chilled to 10–12 °C (50–54 °F).