Jérôme Blin Champagne 'Les Ports' 2023

Jérôme Blin is the archetype of a Champagne grower. He works entirely by hand, organically farming two hectares of parcels in the Vallée de la Marne. Almost half of his vines are Pinot Meunier, a variety once dismissed as fit only for blending, but elevated and re-invigorated by Grower Champagne’s pioneers. If the energy and excitement in Champagne has shifted from big brands to a vibrant community of artisanal growers, Jérôme is one of the reasons.

Alongside Pinot Meunier, Jérôme grows Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as tiny quantities of Champagne’s lesser-seen varieties: Petit Meslier, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris. Fermentation is with wild yeasts in amphorae, stainless steel, oak barrels and terracotta eggs, then the wines are aged on their lees for extended periods.

Jérôme’s Champagnes combine focused minerality with generous fruit and a deeply moreish, savoury finish. They are remarkable, handcrafted wines from a winemaker with a magic touch.