What kind of wine is Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin

The Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin is an organic and biodynamic cuvée that encapsulates the full character of the Côte des Bar, in the heart of southern Champagne. Produced in limited quantities by winemaker Corinne Coutier, this Champagne represents the artisanal and minimalist philosophy of the Marie Courtin house: respect for nature, spontaneous vinification, and absence of sugar dosage, resulting in an authentic wine of rare purity.

Following the tradition of the méthode champenoise – the classic method involving a second fermentation in the bottle – 'Présence' is born from a skilful balance of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, two complementary grape varieties that lend depth, elegance, and tension to the palate.

Vintage Details

The 2020 vintage in Champagne was characterized by favorable weather conditions, with an early spring and a warm yet balanced summer. The grapes achieved perfect ripeness, ensuring wines of great expressiveness, freshness, and structure. The balance between acidity and fruit makes Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin one of the most harmonious and refined versions produced by the house in recent years.

Vinification and aging

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes are hand-harvested and vinified separately in stainless steel, to preserve their natural freshness. This is followed by secondary fermentation and aging in the bottle, where the wine remains at least 36 months on its lees. This prolonged contact imparts complexity and creaminess to the perlage. At disgorgement, no dosage sugar is added (Extra-Brut, zero dosage), a choice that enhances the wine's minerality and precision.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin presents a brilliant golden yellow with straw reflections, embellished by a very fine and persistent effervescence that testifies to its long maturation on the lees.

Nose

The bouquet is elegant and clean, with notes of ripe citrus, green apple, and white flowers, enriched by hints of bread crust and toasted almond, typical of prolonged aging. A delicate mineral vein is also perceptible, anticipating the freshness on the palate.

Taste

On the palate, it is taut, vibrant, and incredibly precise. The texture is creamy yet vertical, supported by a lively acidity. The finish is dry, long, and saline, with a refined gustatory persistence that invites another sip. A wine of perfect balance between energy and softness.

Food Pairings for Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin

The natural freshness and complex structure of this Champagne make it extremely versatile at the table. It is ideal for accompanying:

• Raw fish appetizers, such as tuna tartare or salmon carpaccio;
• Crustaceans and molluscs, especially oysters and prawns;
• Light vegetarian dishes, asparagus or herb risottos;
• Fresh cheeses and medium-aged goat cheeses;
• As an elegant aperitif, to enhance a special moment.

Its Extra-Brut nature and pure, mineral profile make 'Présence' 2020 a perfect Champagne for the entire meal.

Storage and Aging

For those who want to know how to store Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin, it is important to follow a few simple rules. This Champagne, if properly kept, can evolve for several years, developing further aromatic nuances.

• Temperature: maintain between 10°C and 13°C, constant over time;
• Light: store away from direct light sources, especially sunlight;
• Bottle position: horizontal, to keep the cork always moist and ensure a perfect seal;
• Environment: preferably dark, quiet, and with humidity between 60% and 80%.

Follow these recommendations to enjoy, even years later, the extraordinary elegance and authenticity of Champagne Extra-Brut 'Présence' 2020 - Marie Courtin.