75cl
Champagne Francoise Bedel et Fils Cuvee Entre Ciel et Terre Extra Brut
Vendor code : 1994
Françoise Bedel embraced biodynamic winemaking long before the concept was widely known in the wine world. Today, the estate remains small at 8.4 hectares, with Françoise and her son Vincent continuing to follow their unique path. While many producers focus on the more famous Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, their passion lies with Pinot Meunier, which plays a central role in their wines. Entre Ciel et Terre, meaning Between Heaven and Earth, reflects this dedication. The cuvée is crafted from vines aged 30 to 70 years and undergoes extended lees aging to enhance its complexity. Terroir: Predominantly clay and marl over a limestone base. Aging: 5 years on lees.
Color
White
Fortress
12.5%
Country
France
Region
Champagne
Producer
Champagne Francois Bedel et Fils
Champagne Françoise Bedel et Fils Entre Ciel et Terre Brut is a cuvée that balances freshness and vinosity, reflecting the distinctive terroir of the Marne Valley. Crafted from a blend of 90% Pinot Meunier and 10% Pinot Noir, the grapes are sourced from biodynamically farmed vineyards with vines aged 30 to 70 years. The vines grow primarily on clay and marl soils over a limestone base, contributing to the wine's notable minerality. Fermentation is carried out entirely in enamel-lined tanks to preserve the purity of the fruit. Partial malolactic fermentation and aging on lees for five years enhance the wine’s complexity and depth. Subtle aromas of white flowers and honey are complemented by fresh citrus elements, including lemon and pink grapefruit. The palate is fresh and lively, revealing flavors of honey and gingerbread. Balanced with a touch of vinosity and pronounced minerality, the wine finishes with precision and verticality. Entre Ciel et Terre Brut exemplifies Champagne Françoise Bedel et Fils' dedication to biodynamic practices and their commitment to crafting champagnes that authentically express the unique character of the Marne Valley.
Champagne Françoise Bedel is a family-run Domaine located in Crouttes-sur-Marne, on the banks of the Marne River, at the western edge of the Champagne region. Uniquely, the estate lies closer to Paris than to Reims. The modern history of the Domaine began nearly 40 years ago when Françoise Bedel took over from her parents. Françoise’s journey into biodynamics was deeply personal. Her eldest son, Vincent, suffered from severe health issues from birth, and conventional medicine provided no answers. Seeking alternative solutions, Françoise consulted a homeopath, whose treatments improved Vincent’s health significantly. This pivotal experience in 1982 introduced Françoise to new perspectives, ultimately influencing her approach to viticulture. Though unconventional at the time, Françoise began transitioning to biodynamic practices out of a commitment to preserving soil health and working in harmony with nature. By 1998, she implemented biodynamic methods on two hectares, expanding to seven hectares the following year. By 2006, the entire 8.5-hectare estate—planted predominantly with Pinot Meunier (over 80%), along with smaller amounts of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir—was cultivated biodynamically. Vincent joined the estate in 2003, working alongside Françoise to care for vineyards averaging 50 years of age, planted on clay, limestone, and gravel soils. Together, they prioritize soil health and biodiversity, ensuring the production of healthy grapes. The Domaine practices manual harvesting, and in 2015, a new cellar was built. This space combines natural light, modern design, and environmentally conscious features. Wines are aged on their lees and further matured in underground cellars, with some cuvées aging for up to six years. Dosage is minimal or absent, reflecting a focus on purity and the expression of terroir. Françoise’s achievements are significant. In the 1990s, being a woman in Champagne and adopting biodynamic principles was a rarity. Yet, her determination and vision have not only shaped her wines but also inspired other growers. Today, Françoise and Vincent produce Champagnes that reflect the character of their vineyards—pure, generous, and refined, with a strong connection to their origins.
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