A grape variety, Meunier, often accustomed to working behind the scenes, is transformed here into the undisputed star of an unforgettable story. But let us proceed in order. We are in Courcourt, a small village located in the picturesque Vallée de la Marne. In this area, the historic Chavost cooperative, founded in 1946, has embarked on a landmark transition, converting its vineyards to rigorous and respectful organic farming. The limestone and chalk soils of the area give the grapes an unmistakable sense of place, which the winery is committed to preserving intact by completely eliminating synthetic chemicals. Made from one hundred per cent Pinot Meunier, this grape variety, traditionally used in local blends to add roundness, is vinified on its own here to reveal its unexpected nobility. The winery selects only the free-run juice obtained from the first pressing of the grapes, excluding the subsequent, less noble fractions. In the cellar, the work follows a philosophy of minimal human intervention. Vinification takes place entirely in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks to protect the fruit. No sulphites are added, and both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation start spontaneously thanks to native yeasts and bacteria. The wine undergoes no chaptalisation, acidification or clarification before bottling, while the absence of final dosage makes it an authentic Brut Nature. Golden in colour with brilliant highlights. On the nose, it opens with delicate fruity notes of pear, apple and cooked red berries, enriched by hints of white flowers such as hawthorn. On the palate, it is surprisingly vinous and remarkably broad. The fruit sensations previously perceived return, leading the sip towards an extraordinarily long finish with a persistent chalky character. At the table, it proves to be a formidable all-rounder for bold gastronomic pairings. Perfect with sesame-crusted tuna tataki, it also pairs beautifully with duck breast à l’orange, creating a perfect link with the notes of cooked fruit. Gourmet aperitif.