Article: Champagne Guy de Forez
Champagne Guy de Forez
In the quiet wine-growing village of Les Riceys, down in the southern reaches of Champagne’s Côte des Bar, you’ll find a small but captivating family estate called Champagne Guy de Forez. This domaine was founded in the 1950s when Roland Wenner acquired a modest parcel of vines. Over the decades the property has grown gently, and today Roland’s children continue the work, tending about 11–12 hectares planted overwhelmingly to Pinot Noir — the backbone of the estate’s style. Viticulture here is grounded in sustainable practices, and Guy de Forez was one of the early adopters of Terra Vitis certification, with ongoing commitments to environmental care and freshness in the wines.
Their Tradition Blanc de Noirs is a great expression of this place and philosophy. Made entirely from Pinot Noir grown on the rolling, clay-limestone slopes of Les Riceys, it’s a non-vintage Champagne that balances elegance with depth. Aged on its lees for an extended period and often bottled with time under cork, it brings together bright red-berry character with vibrant acidity and a mineral spine that speaks to its kimmeridgian soils.
On the nose you’ll find expressive fruit and subtle spice, and on the palate the wine feels both fresh and substantial — lively cranberry and raspberry notes underlined by chalky minerality and fine, persistent bubbles. It’s a versatile bottle that works beautifully as an apéritif and partners well with richer foods, from seafood to creamy sauces.
