Producer: Guy de Forez is a family-owned grower Champagne estate based in Les Riceys, the southernmost village in Champagne and one of the region's most distinctive terroirs. Founded by Guy Spagnesi and now managed by Sylvie Spagnesi Wenner and Francis Wenner, the estate farms approximately 9 hectares, planted almost exclusively to Pinot Noir. The domaine has earned Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) certification and practices sustainable viticulture, combining traditional methods with modern precision in both the vineyard and cellar. While Les Riceys is celebrated for its rare still Rosé des Riceys, Guy de Forez has built its reputation on expressive, Pinot Noir-driven Champagnes that faithfully reflect the unique character of the Côte des Bar.
Vineyard: This Blanc de Noirs is produced from 100% Pinot Noir grown exclusively in Les Riceys in the Côte des Bar. Unlike the chalk-dominated soils of northern Champagne, Les Riceys is defined by Kimmeridgian limestone and clay, the same geological formation that extends into nearby Chablis. These soils, combined with the Côte des Bar's slightly warmer climate, produce Pinot Noir with generous fruit, impressive structure, and vibrant natural acidity. The vineyards benefit from ideal south- and southeast-facing slopes, allowing the grapes to achieve excellent ripeness while maintaining freshness and mineral tension.
Winemaking: The wine is produced entirely by the traditional Champagne method using stainless steel fermentation to preserve the purity and freshness of the fruit. The estate favors a clean, precise style that highlights Pinot Noir's naturally expressive character rather than heavy oak influence. Extended lees aging adds texture, complexity, and a refined mousse before the wine is bottled as a Brut. The finished Champagne offers generous aromas of orchard fruit, stone fruit, citrus, and brioche, supported by the vinous depth and structure that have become signatures of Pinot Noir from Les Riceys. The house's Blanc de Noirs has also historically been produced without malolactic fermentation in certain releases to preserve freshness and energy.
Technical Details: Champagne AOC; 100% Pinot Noir (Blanc de Noirs); Les Riceys, Côte des Bar; HVE-certified sustainable viticulture; Kimmeridgian limestone and clay soils; stainless steel vinification; traditional méthode champenoise; Brut dosage; approximately 12% alcohol.
Food Pairing: Roast chicken, duck breast, pork tenderloin, grilled salmon, lobster, mushroom dishes, aged Comté, and washed-rind cheeses all pair beautifully with this Blanc de Noirs. Aromas of ripe apple, mirabelle plum, vineyard peach, citrus zest, brioche, and subtle spice lead into a palate that is broad, vinous, and beautifully balanced. The richness of Pinot Noir is lifted by bright acidity and a lingering mineral finish, making this an excellent aperitif while possessing enough structure to accompany an entire meal. The distinctive terroir of Les Riceys gives the wine both generosity and freshness, offering a classic expression of Côte des Bar Pinot Noir.
