The Face Nord cuvée from Champagne Péhu-Simonet is a pure and straightforward expression of the Verzy Grand Cru. Presented here in magnum format, it reveals David Péhu's unique vision: combining the power of Pinot Noir with the chalky tension of Chardonnay in a style that is unpretentious, clean, and precise. The large format amplifies the aromatic depth and prolongs the wine's freshness over the years.
This cuvée embodies the north face of the Montagne de Reims, where chalk outcrops and maturity is slowly gained. A champagne of balance and integrity.
The production of Péhu-Simonet Face Nord Brut champagne
A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with a masterful balance, the Face Nord cuvée seeks to convey the natural tension of the Verzy Grand Cru. The aromatic objective is to preserve the mineral purity and verticality of the wine, while adding a silky texture through patient aging on fine lees.
- Pinot Noir (70%) brings structure, vinosity, and red fruit.
- Chardonnay (30%) brings freshness, brightness, and precision.
The terroir
The grapes come exclusively from the Verzy Grand Cru, in the heart of the Montagne de Reims. The brown limestone soils resting on pure chalk give the wine a saline tension and a straightforward expression. The predominantly north and northeast exposures explain the name of the cuvée: Face Nord (North Face). These slopes preserve aromatic freshness and promote slow ripening, the signature of the Péhu-Simonet style.
Vinification
The grapes are pressed slowly, then the juices are vinified separately according to the plots. Natural alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts and partial malolactic fermentation to preserve liveliness. Aging on fine lees, partly in barrels, refines the texture and develops complexity.
Tasting notes
Color
Pale gold with silvery highlights. Fine, regular effervescence. The brilliance of the disc heralds the tension and purity of the wine.
Nose
Initial nose of fresh chalk, green apple, and citrus. After aeration, notes of hazelnut, toasted bread, and white flowers. Pure and precise, with a mineral character.
Palate
Straightforward, lively and salty attack. Taut texture, finely chiseled bubbles. The structure of the Pinot Noir gives body, while the Chardonnay lengthens the finish. Chalky and elegant persistence.
Food pairing suggestions
A structured and tense champagne, Face Nord pairs well with seafood dishes, firm textures, and precise cooking. The marine flavors and white meats allow it to express all its minerality.
- Fine oysters from the claire
- Sea bream tartare
- Comté cheese gougères
- Pan-fried scallops
- Grilled sea bass fillet
- Roasted poultry with lemon
- Honey-roasted apple
- Light lemon tart
- Almond shortbread
Storage and serving
Storing this magnum
Store the magnum at 10–11°C in a dark cellar with stable humidity. The large format ensures slow and harmonious aging, preserving tension and freshness. Avoid temperature variations: over time, the cuvée will gain depth and brioche notes while retaining its mineral edge.
Aging potential
Optimal window: 2025–2040. Between 2025 and 2030, the wine expresses its chalky purity and citrus notes. From 2031 to 2038, it develops aromas of dried fruit, salted butter, and hazelnut. From 2039 onwards, the texture becomes more caressing, with the saline tension remaining in the background. The magnum extends its aging potential by an additional decade.
Serving
Serve at 10°C in slender tulip glasses. Open 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the bubbles to relax. This champagne gains in amplitude as it slowly oxygenates in the glass.
