Pavot-Ballassi

Pavot-Ballassi is a small champagne estate at 11 Grande Rue in Marfaux. By its own account it has existed since 1982. It is registered as a Récoltant-Manipulant, which means the estate makes its champagne itself and sells it under its own name. For vinification it relies on the méthode champenoise.

Marfaux in the Ardre valley

Marfaux lies in the Vesle and Ardre sub-region of the Montagne de Reims. The village's vineyard area is modest: 23 growers farm 39.8 hectares between them, of which 29 hectares are Meunier, 9.5 hectares Pinot Noir and 1.3 hectares Chardonnay. The vineyards sit in the northern part of the commune, shaped like an amphitheatre, with gentle slopes facing south-west to south-east towards the Ardre valley. Pinot Meunier is the dominant variety here, which suits the Ardre valley, where Meunier has traditionally had a strong presence.

Grape varieties, soils and cuvées

The estate grows Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The soils are mainly chalk, limestone and clay-limestone, in varying proportions. The range includes a Brut, a Rosé and a Demi-Sec. Details on vineyard holdings, dosage and ageing times for the individual cuvées could not be confirmed from public sources. The best way to get answers is to ask the estate directly.

Visiting and tasting

Visitors are welcome. According to the growers' directory, tours and tastings are possible daily by appointment, so it is wise to get in touch before you travel. Contact details are on the estate's website at champagnepavotballassi.fr. If you would like to get to know champagne from the Ardre valley, Marfaux offers a small producer where you can taste the wine right where it comes from.