Vineyards and winemaking
Cuvée Roland Boulard is a Blanc de Noirs composed of 60% Pinot Meunier from the Vallée de la Marne and 40% Pinot Noir from the Massif de Saint-Thierry. Gentle pressing of the dark-skinned grapes produces clear juice, marrying Meunier's generous fruit with the structure and finesse of Pinot Noir.
The blend combines 60% wine from the 2020 harvest with 40% reserve wines. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel before secondary fermentation in bottle and 20 months on the lees. A dosage of 7.8g/l brings the finished Brut into poised balance.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Radiant gold with a fine, continuous stream of bubbles.
Nose
Pear, Mirabelle plum and grapefruit zest are layered with almond, white blossom and warm brioche.
Palate
Lively at first, then broad and creamy, with crisp apple and pear giving way to apricot, citrus peel and toasted hazelnut. Reserve wines bring depth while fresh acidity keeps the finish precise, balanced and persistent.
Food pairing
A highly adaptable Champagne for oysters, smoked salmon blinis, fish and chips, roast chicken in a light cream sauce, or Brie de Meaux. It is equally comfortable as an aperitif, but has enough body to remain at the table.
Background story
The cuvée honours estate founder Roland Boulard. Today the family domaine in Cormicy is led by his daughter Nathalie and her husband Benoit, with their daughters Laurine, Julie and Ludivine representing the next generation; Laurine won the public vote at the 2023 Jeunes Talents du Champagne competition with this wine.
Sommelier's Choice discovered the estate through Laurine's university placement with us. Bottles sent by Benoit for her farewell barbecue revealed a grower Champagne then sold only at the cellar door and to a small circle of restaurants. That personal connection began our collaboration and introduced the family's wines to the UK.
