Charles Collin

Charles Collin is not a classic family estate but a growers' cooperative from the Côte des Bar. In 1952, a number of growers from the Aube joined forces and founded the cooperative of Fontette, near Bar-sur-Seine. In 1993 the winery adopted the name of its most important founder, Charles Collin, as its brand. Since 2022 it has belonged to the Union Auboise.

Sites, grape varieties and way of working

Fontette lies right at the southern end of the wine region, close to the border with the Côte d'Or département. How many growers and hectares belong to it is given differently depending on the source. The house itself most recently spoke of more than 160 growers and almost 330 hectares. The Champagne directory lists 160 growers on 390 hectares. Pinot Noir dominates: according to the house, 92% of the vineyard area is planted with Pinot Noir and 8% with Chardonnay.

The wines are made entirely on site. From hand-picking the grapes to shipping the bottles, everything is done in-house. Pressing takes place in pneumatic presses, and vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Shortly before the 2009 harvest, a second winery was added in Essoyes, with a capacity of 9,700 hectolitres. Around 100,000 bottles a year are planned for the house's own brand. The rest goes to other houses as must, clear wine or finished bottles.

“In 1952, a number of growers from the Aube joined forces and founded the cooperative of Fontette, near Bar-sur-Seine.

The cuvées

The range follows a clear line. The standard Charles Collin champagnes are shaped by Pinot Noir, while the Cuvée Charles is led by Chardonnay. According to one merchant, the Brut is made up of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay.

The prestige cuvée is called La Belle Gabrielle. It is named after Renoir's muse, comes exclusively from selected plots and is made only from the heart of the cuvée. Gabrielle Renard, Renoir's favourite model, was born in nearby Essoyes. The blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir ages for five years in the cellar. The house's website speaks of four to five years.

Visiting and tasting

The boutique in Fontette welcomes visitors Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm and from 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Tastings and tours take place by appointment only. Anyone travelling in the region can easily combine a visit with Essoyes, which is only 6 km away and keeps the memory of Renoir alive.