2022 Frédéric Savart "Le Mont Benoît" Villers-aux-Nœuds 1er Cru, Champagne, France

ABOUT THE WINE

Le Mont Benoît is a single-site Champagne from Villers-aux-Nœuds in the Petite Montagne de Reims. Savart’s parcel is planted predominantly to Pinot Noir, with about 5% Chardonnay. Clay and silt over chalk distinguish it from the sandier vineyards around Écueil, providing another perspective on the two villages at the heart of the domaine.

The 2022 is a wood-matured, Extra Brut vintage bottling. Keeping this parcel separate allows its identity to remain clear within Savart’s range: a predominantly Pinot Noir expression from chalk-rich Villers-aux-Nœuds. Freshness and a spicy accent characterize the release, while its small Chardonnay component completes the blend. It makes a revealing companion to the domaine’s Chardonnay-based Le Mont des Chrétiens.

We suggest serving it through a meal, with roast poultry, a mushroom tart or lightly smoked fish. These savory dishes provide a useful setting for exploring a single-vineyard Champagne. Use a white-wine glass and let the bottle warm gradually from refrigerator temperature so that its aromas can develop.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Champagne Savart spans three generations: René established the family’s vineyard holdings in 1947, Daniel expanded them, and Frédéric assumed leadership in 2005. Frédéric works around four hectares in Écueil and Villers-aux-Nœuds, including treasured Pinot Noir plant material selected by earlier generations.

The domaine treats its parcels as distinct sources of character. Vineyard care prioritizes prevention and a healthy growing environment, while cellar work combines stainless steel and barrel use according to the wine. Malolactic fermentation varies with the cuvée and vintage. This willingness to respond to individual lots, together with the family’s intimate knowledge of its small holdings, gives the range its diversity.