Pierre Gerbais Grains de Celles Extra Brut Champagne – terroir-driven elegance from Côte des Bar

Grains de Celles Extra Brut is a Champagne for connoisseurs – and for those who want to taste true terroir, precision and personality in every bubble. This cuvée is the signature of Pierre Gerbais and a shining example of why the Côte des Bar is one of the most exciting regions in Champagne today. Here you get an uncompromising Champagne with low dosage, great finesse and an energy that speaks directly to both heart and palate.

The wine is composed of 50% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Blanc Vrai – a rare grape in Champagne that the house of Pierre Gerbais is internationally recognized for mastering. The grapes come from selected parcels around the village of Celles-sur-Ource, where the fields are cultivated without the use of pesticides and herbicides. The focus is not on certifications, but on healthy soil, living vineyards and grapes with maximum purity and identity.

Grains de Celles is harvested in 2020 and vinified with great respect for the fruit. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled steel tanks to preserve the wine’s fresh, precise expression. After the second fermentation, the Champagne is aged for a full 30 months on the lees, resulting in a fine, persistent mousse and an elegant, creamy structure. Disgorged in April 2023 and finished with just 4 g/l dosage – true Extra Brut, where the terroir is allowed to speak.

Tasting notes

On the nose, you’re greeted by white flowers, fresh lemon zest and a slightly salty minerality reminiscent of lime and sea air. This is followed by notes of white peaches, green apples, brioche and subtle roasted nuts. The palate is crisp, vibrant and mineral, with high, precise acidity and a silky mousse. The finish is long, dry and extremely elegant – a Champagne with both nerve and depth.

The history of the house

Maison Pierre Gerbais dates back to the 1800s and is currently run by the 8th generation, Aurélien Gerbais. For generations, the family has focused on field work, terroir and authentic Champagne, and under Aurélien’s leadership, the house has achieved the status of one of the most visionary producers in Côte des Bar. Working with Pinot Blanc Vrai in particular has made Pierre Gerbais a reference point for Champagnes with purity, energy and personality.

• Wine type: Champagne Extra Brut
• Producer: Pierre Gerbais
• Region: Côte des Bar, Champagne, France
• Grape composition: 50% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Blanc Vrai
• Vintage: 2020
• Aging: 30 months sur lie
• Dosage: 4 g/l
• Disgorgement: April 2023
• Alcohol: 12%alcohol
• Serving temperature: 8-10 °C
• Quantity: 75 cl