Collard-Picard

Collard-Picard

I've tasted 3 Champagnes from Collard-Picard -- and this house impressed me with their willingness to take risks. A Solera system, a Brut Nature from the 2015 vintage, a Blanc de Noirs with genuine terroir expression -- they're not playing it safe here. The grapes come from three regions: Cote des Blancs, Vallée de la Marne and Aube.

Terroir and Location

The combination of three regions gives Collard-Picard a remarkable toolkit. The Cote des Blancs delivers elegant Chardonnay with chalky minerality, the Vallée de la Marne provides fruit-driven Meunier base wines, and the Aube contributes warmer, riper Pinot Noir lots. That the house utilizes all three regions shows ambition and understanding of Champagne's diversity.

Philosophy and Style

Collard-Picard stands for character. The Champagnes are consistently dry (Brut Nature to Extra Brut), the lees aging is long, and the use of oak is thoughtful. The Solera system in the Perpetuelle shows that they think long-term here -- each year a portion of the reserve is withdrawn and replaced with new wine, creating a continuity and complexity that you don't find in single vintages.

The Range

Three cuvées that represent different philosophies: Brut Nature (Essentiel), Solera (Perpetuelle) and pure Pinot power (ADN Noir). A small but highly interesting portfolio.

The Cuvées in Detail

Essentiel 2015

A structured Champagne with present acidity that clears the palate and creates new tension. The long lees aging brings depth and composure, the oak barrels provide structure without weight. As a Brut Nature, the 2015 vintage shows its best side: ripe enough for complexity, fresh enough for tension. A Champagne for people who want to see the wine in the foreground.

My tip: With a robust fish like turbot with Beurre Noisette -- the acidity and structure of the Champagne can handle it.

Type: Brut Nature | Vintage: 2015 | Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

Perpetuelle 13 Années

13 years of Solera aging -- that's impressive. In the glass initially calm and precise with bright fruit, a hint of herbs and mandarin. Plus a slightly oxidative, nutty oak feel from the foudres -- clean and not heavy, with lively acidity. The Solera system gives this Champagne a complexity that you discover anew glass by glass. For me, the most interesting cuvée at Collard-Picard.

Compared to the Essentiel, the Perpetuelle is softer, rounder and less confrontational. Where the Essentiel works with acidity, the Perpetuelle relies on richness and complexity.

Type: Extra Brut | Vintage: 2008 | Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

ADN Noir

Cool and precise with mineral depth and a long chalky finish. Taut and fresh, but never austere -- a Blanc de Noirs that demands attention and invites enjoyment. The DNA of Pinot Noir is perceptible in every sip: power, structure and a red apple skin that combines with salty notes.

My tip: Enjoy solo, in peace. This Champagne deserves attention and rewards it.

Type: Blanc de Noirs | Vintage: 2019 | Grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

What makes Collard-Picard special?

The Solera system and the uncompromising Brut Nature approach. Here, Champagne is made for people who seek challenge and complexity. The Perpetuelle is a Champagne you won't find in any supermarket chain -- and that's exactly what makes it so valuable.

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Conclusion