The 2022 Les Crochots cuvée from Champagne Antoine Chevalier is a confidential cuvée, a Coteaux Champenois white of great purity, made from Chardonnay grapes grown biodynamically on the chalky soils of Vitryat. Aged without artifice, this non-sparkling cuvée reveals all the mineral power of its terroir and is intended for lovers of fine, expressive white wines. Enjoy with grilled fish or poultry with fresh herbs.
The production of Antoine Chevalier's Coteaux Champenois Les Crochots 2022
Located in the discreet but promising Vitryat region, the "Les Crochots 2022" cuvée is the result of certified biodynamic viticulture, rigorously carried out by Antoine Chevalier on 2.5 hectares of vines around Vitry-en-Perthois, Couvrot, and Val-de-Vière. This still wine showcases a unique plot of Chardonnay planted on shallow limestone soils, very similar to those of the Côte des Blancs.
Gentle pressing in a traditional Coquart press, spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and aging in old barrels, stoneware jars, and stainless steel vats for 10 months: every effort is made to preserve the natural expression of the grapes. No sulfur is added, and the wines are neither filtered nor fined. This meticulous care in the winemaking process allows the identity of the terroir to be accurately expressed.
The 2022 vintage in the Vitryat region
2022 was a sunny and generous year in Champagne. In the Vitryat area, the grapes benefited from ideal ripening conditions, thanks to a good alternation between warm days and cool nights. The Chardonnay grapes were particularly well-balanced, ripe and taut with beautiful natural acidity, offering a vibrant, chiseled profile perfectly suited to still wines. For Antoine Chevalier, it was a landmark year, demonstrating the potential of his terroirs for this type of winemaking.
Tasting notes
Color
The wine has a pale gold color, clear and bright, with crystalline reflections.
Nose
The nose is expressive and intoxicating, carried by floral notes of jasmine and honeysuckle, mingled with stewed white fruits (pear, apple), all underscored by a very pronounced chalky minerality.
Palate
The palate seduces with a silky, full texture, beautiful vitality and a lingering saline structure. Aromas of candied lemon, poached apple and dried herbs are found. The finish is long and subtly smoky.
Serving suggestions
- Sea bream tartare with citrus fruits
- Comté cheese gougères
- Fine Claire oysters
- Steamed sea bass fillet, lemon butter sauce
- Free-range poultry with fresh herbs
- White asparagus risotto
- Thin apple tart
- Citrus salad with basil
- Fresh goat cheese and walnut bread
The price of a bottle of Les Crochots 2022 from Champagne Antoine Chevalier
The price of a bottle of Les Crochots 2022 from Champagne Antoine Chevalier is 59,95 £GB. This price is justified by the limited production, the quality of the craftsmanship and the purity of the expression of the Vitryat terroir.
Reviews of the "Les Crochots 2022" champagne from Antoine Chevalier
Wine lovers praise the mineral freshness of this Coteaux Champenois, its very pure expression of Chardonnay and its Burgundian character. Many note its ability to surprise even the most discerning palates. Reviews of the "Les Crochots 2022" cuvée from Champagne Antoine Chevalier
Store this wine
Store horizontally in a cool, dark, stable place (42-55°F). This wine can be kept for 4 to 7 years. It will gain in smoothness, complexity, and roundness over time, while preserving its taut minerality.
Why give this wine as a gift?
The Les Crochots 2022 vintage is an ideal gift for lovers of great terroir whites that are rare, confidential and committed to virtuous viticulture. It is also an excellent way to discover Champagne in a different way.
Anecdote about this cuvée
Antoine Chevalier had never made wine before 2019. In just a few vintages, he has become one of the rising stars of Vitryat. This cuvée, Les Crochots, is a declaration of love for his terroir, which he vinifies less than 100 meters from the vineyard.
