Chassenay D’arce

Chassenay d'Arce is not a single winemaking family but a cooperative of growers. Five pioneers founded it in 1956 in Ville-sur-Arce. Today 130 families and three generations of growers make up the house. The name goes back to the Château de Chacenay. The castle has stood above the Arce valley since the 11th century and gave the champagne its name.

Vineyards in the Arce valley

The vineyards lie in the heart of the Côte des Bar. They cover 315 hectares and 14 villages along the river Arce. According to the Gourmet Gazette, this gives Chassenay d'Arce the largest vineyard holdings of any cooperative in Champagne. The landscape alternates between vines and woodland. The house names the diversity of grape varieties and controlled, sustainable viticulture as its particular strengths.

The grapes grown are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Blanc. Pinot Blanc is a rarity. A vintage cuvée made from Pinot Blanc is considered a speciality of the house. The grapes are sorted by variety, quality and plot. Small tanks therefore allow for quite a number of different cuvées.

“Today 130 families and three generations of growers make up the house.

Sustainability and cuvées

In 2021, Chassenay d'Arce became the first champagne house to receive the Vignerons Engagés label for its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. The range grew by two certified organic cuvées, which are released under the name "Les Authentiques". Only a small part of the total area is organic, however: 7.3 per cent of the vineyards were most recently certified. According to its website, the range also includes a ratafia and other spirits.

One example of the style is the Sélection Brut. It is made up of 89 per cent Pinot Noir, 8 per cent Chardonnay and 3 per cent Meunier, with 36 per cent reserve wines. The champagnes age for at least three years, often considerably longer.

Billy-le-Grand

Visiting and tasting

The house is at 11 Rue du Pressoir in Ville-sur-Arce. The tour begins in the 19th-century cellars and in the "Secrets de Vignerons" area, which explains the work from vineyard to bottle. A guided tour with a commentated tasting is available from 10 euros. There are also packages that include lunch. You buy the champagnes on site in the boutique. It is best to book your visit in advance through the house's website.