Vincent D'astree

Champagne Vincent d'Astrée is the brand of the Pierry cooperative near Épernay, founded in 1956 by seven growing families. So this is not a single family estate, but an association of growers. The name combines Vincent, the patron saint of winegrowers, with d'Astrée, which stands for the protection of the stars.

Pierry and its grape varieties

Pierry is the only Premier Cru of the Coteaux Sud, with vineyards facing south and south-east. The village is closely tied to champagne history: Frère Oudart, an imitator of Dom Pérignon, lived and is buried here. The cooperative puts Meunier at the centre of its work. The plantings are Meunier (55 per cent), Pinot Noir (20 per cent) and Chardonnay (25 per cent).

Figures for the vineyard area differ depending on the source. More recent figures give 70 hectares, spread across 170 growing families. Older sources speak of 85 hectares. When you visit, it is best to ask for the current figure. 31 per cent of the grapes pressed come from estates certified Haute Valeur Environnementale or Viticulture Durable en Champagne.

Cuvées and cellar work

The cuvées are made under cellar master Sébastien Lapierre, who joined in 2002. The work takes place in cellars more than 200 years old, where Chardonnay and Meunier are traditionally vinified. The Brut is made up of 80 per cent Pinot Meunier and 20 per cent Chardonnay, of which 30 to 40 per cent is reserve wine.

The range is broad. According to the Gault&Millau entry, the cuvées include Brut, Brut Rosé, Rosé de Saignée, Réserve, Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Millésime, Vinothèque, Eclipse, Novae, Equinoxe, Solstice and Coeur de Terroir. A ratafia is also part of the line-up. The Guide Hachette 2011 awarded Gouttes d'Or.

Visits and tastings

Tastings and sales take place on site. The visit lasts one and a half hours and includes three tastings. It costs 30 euros per person. There are also themed or individual tasting workshops, a bar, a boutique and a terrace. The address is 32 Rue Léon Bourgeois, 51530 Pierry.