Why it matters
The producer
The Cattier family has worked vineyard land in Chigny-les-Roses since 1625 or earlier. The house was among the early adopters of sustainable viticulture in Champagne.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Cattier is based at 6/11 rue Dom Pérignon in Chigny-les-Roses, Champagne. Premier Cru is a Champagne village classification, so the term on the label refers to the village level of the grapes.
Wines to know
The range in view
Cattier's range includes Cattier Brut Nature Premier Cru and Cattier Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut. Both cuvées mature for more than 3 years in the cellar. The Brut Nature receives zero dosage, while the Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut carries 6 g/L dosage. Dosage is the small addition used to set the final sweetness of a sparkling wine.
The Brut Nature is lively, with concentrated fruit. Green lemon and pear lead into toasted brioche, with persistent freshness. Blanc de Blancs identifies a Champagne made from white grapes.