Although Jerome Bourgeois – Diaz grew up among vines, becoming a vigneron was not his calling until the early 2000’s. Encouraged by his mother’s decision to stop selling grapes to big companies, in 2001 he returned to his family domaine in Crouttes sur Marne, with the intention of making and bottling his own Champagne. The inspiration and encouragement in those early days came not only from his family, who have been vine growers for four generations, but also from other small-scale vignerons. With firm belief that “the winemaker can only be as good as his vineyards” in 2009 Jerome decided to adapt biodynamic practices, gaining Demeter certification in 2015. Today he is known for the “purist approach” and his wines really show it! In stark contrast with his conventionally farming neighbours, Jerom’s vineyards are healthy and full of life. He often prefers to sell off the grapes from the edge of the estate, to make sure no chemicals affect his wine.

In total he farms 6.5 hectares divided into 30 parcels of south – east facing vineyards on limestone and clayey soil, planted to Pinot Meunier (3.5 ha), Pinot Noir (2 ha) and Chardonnay (1.5ha). In the winery Jerome uses a traditional Cocquard Press – which is slow and labour intensive but also extracts the juice in the gentle way. The wines are naturally vinified in a mix of stainless steel and used oak barrels, before being bottled and aged “sur lie”. The dosage is low (0-4g-l)

We were very impressed with the outcome of Jerome’s work. Those are first and foremost great wines with incredible purity, energy, and depth, as well as being a great Champagne.