Cédric Bouchard is a highly regarded winemaker in the Champagne region of France, known for his unique approach to Champagne production. He established his own label, Roses de Jeanne, in 2000 on a small plot in the Côte de Bars area of the Aube, a sub-region in southern Champagne. His approach to winemaking has set him apart in a region dominated by larger houses and cooperatives.
Bouchard focuses on single-vineyard, single-variety (mostly Pinot Noir), and single-vintage Champagnes, which is relatively uncommon in the region where blends are the norm. His philosophy is one of minimal intervention. He practices sustainable viticulture, avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides, and in the cellar, he minimizes the use of sulfur and avoids other additives.
His Champagnes are known for their precision, purity, and expression of terroir. Bouchard's method involves low yields, meticulous grape selection, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and long aging on lees to enhance complexity. He also prefers a lower dosage (addition of sugar in the liqueur d'expédition), which allows the natural character of the wine to shine through.
Cédric Bouchard's Champagnes, while produced in small quantities, have gained international acclaim for their distinctive style, standing out for their clarity, elegance, and nuanced expression of the Pinot Noir grape. His commitment to showcasing the individuality of each vineyard plot through a single-vintage approach has earned him a dedicated following among Champagne connoisseurs.
