J. Lassalle ‘Cuvée Angéline’ Brut 1er Cru, Chigny-les-Roses, Champagne 2012

First created in 1978 by Jules and Olga Lassalle as a tribute to their granddaughter Angéline, this cuvée has since become the soul of the estate. Today, Angéline Lassalle carries forward her family’s traditions, and this namesake vintage bottling stands as the house’s emblem—an expression of heritage, precision, and deep connection to the Premier Cru village of Chigny-les-Roses. Drawn from two old-vine parcels planted in the early 1970s, the wine reflects the generosity of Pinot Noir and the refinement of Chardonnay, raised patiently for a full decade on lees before release.

WINEMAKER: Angéline Lassalle

FARMING: Sustainable, with traditional Champagne viticulture practiced by hand

VARIETIES: 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay

TERROIR: From two historic Premier Cru parcels in Chigny-les-Roses: Les Houssets (Pinot Noir, planted 1972) and Les Pécherines (Chardonnay, planted 1973). These mature vines, rooted in chalk-rich soils, deliver concentration, structure, and aromatic finesse.

VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested; temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation; full malolactic fermentation. Aged 8–10 months in tank with three rackings. Bottled at the domaine in April following harvest. Matured sur lies for 10 years before disgorgement, with dosage around 7 g/L.

AGING: 10 years on lees; disgorged four months before release.

TASTING NOTES: Generous mousse and a fine, persistent bead introduce a luminous white-gold Champagne. Aromas of compoted white peach, pear, and a touch of black cherry are layered with fresh brioche and crushed hazelnut. On the palate, Angéline shows both breadth and lift—a vibrant energy underscoring the depth and elegance of the 2012 vintage. Ample, fresh, and beautifully textured, with a long, harmoniously detailed finish.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Tapas, roast chicken with pan sauce, creamy pastas, Comté, or an aged cheese board.