The Odyssée champagne cuvée Jour 4/319 Mareuil-sur-Aÿ 2021 is a rare and exclusive creation, born from three iconic plots cultivated by Olivier Bonville and Ferdinand Ruelle. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it authentically expresses the identity of the Mareuil-sur-Aÿ Premier Cru terroir. With only 3,504 bottles produced, this cuvée illustrates the artisanal and parcel-based philosophy of the Odyssée estate.
The production of Jour 4/319 Odyssée 2021 champagne
Odyssée's "Jour" series highlights unique lieux-dits, revealed through precise and respectful vinification. The Jour 4/319 cuvée comes from three small parcels in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, a renowned Premier Cru in the Marne Valley:
- Trayette (27 ares 34): Pinot Noir planted in 1975.
- La Clef (11 acres 71): Chardonnay planted in 1987.
- La Ronce (8 ares 44): Chardonnay planted in 1980.
The blend is composed of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay. The grapes are pressed in a traditional 4,000 kg Champagne press, then vinified in demi-muids from the Tonnellerie Artisanale de Champagne, in order to preserve both the complexity of the Pinot and the elegance of the Chardonnay.
The 2021 vintage
The year 2021 was marked by contrasting weather conditions, requiring meticulous work in the vineyard. Despite the uncertainties, the grapes harvested from these plots revealed a vibrant freshness and great aromatic precision. Thanks to 32 months of aging on lees, the 2021 Jour 4/319 cuvée combines intensity, elegance, and a distinct mineral identity.
Vinification
The juices ferment and age in demi-muids, adding a touch of structure and aromatic complexity without masking the purity of the fruit. Dosage is limited to 4.2 g/L (Extra-Brut) to preserve the balance between freshness and richness. The cuvée was disgorged in October 2024 after a long rest in the cellar, ensuring optimal maturity.
The terroir of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ
Mareuil-sur-Aÿ is a Premier Cru village in the Marne Valley, covering 294 hectares of vineyards, nearly 85% of which are planted with Pinot Noir. Its terroir, located at the confluence of the influences of the Montagne de Reims and the Valley, produces powerful, structured wines of great elegance.
Tasting notes
Color
The Jour 4/319 Odyssée 2021 cuvée has a pale gold color with luminous highlights, enlivened by a fine and regular effervescence.
Nose
The nose opens with floral and fruity notes: white flowers, citrus, and stone fruits. Mineral and slightly toasted nuances add complexity and depth.
Palate
On the palate, the attack is lively and taut, carried by the freshness of Chardonnay. Pinot Noir brings structure and richness, with delicate red fruit and quince flavors. The long, salty finish reflects the mineral signature of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
Food pairing suggestions
- Gougères with aged Comté cheese
- Sea bass tartare with citrus fruits
- Mini chicken croquettes
- Roast chicken with reduced jus
- Sea bream fillet with white butter sauce
- Risotto with wild mushrooms
- Thin pear tart
- Apple and cinnamon crumble
- Financier with toasted almonds
Storage and serving tips
Storing this champagne
The unlabeled bottle of Jour 4/319 2021 should be stored horizontally in a dark cellar at a constant temperature of 40–50°F. The ideal humidity is around 70% to preserve the seal of the cork and the finesse of the bubbles.
Aging potential
Thanks to its long aging and structure, this cuvée has an aging potential of 6 to 8 years. It will evolve towards more complex notes of honey, dried fruit, and spices while retaining its mineral tension.
Serving suggestions
Serve this champagne between 9 and 11°C in tulip-shaped white wine glasses to reveal its full aromatic richness. It benefits from being opened a few minutes before tasting to release its full complexity.
