Alexandre Filaine, Champagne, Cuvee Speciale Brut (Base 2021 and 2022)

Fabrice Gass is the mastermind behind Alexandre Filaine, Cuvée Spéciale Brut, from just over a hectare of organically farmed parcels in Damery in the Vallée de la Marne. His adherence to winemaking methods, including native yeast fermentation in century-old barrels and the deliberate avoidance of malolactic conversion, defines the wine's intrinsic character. This particular release, drawing from a base of 2021 and 2022 vintages, is an assemblage of approximately 45% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and 25% Pinot Meunier. The Champagne's long aging on lees, combined with the chalk-dominant terroir, results in a wine of pronounced structural tension, precise acidity, and a creamy, mineral-driven persistence.