Vincent Lagille’s 2022 “La Garenne” is one of just four Brut Nature bottlings in his tiny parcellaire lineup and comes entirely from organically farmed Pinot Meunier in the minuscule lieu-dit La Garenne (“the wild rabbit”). Despite zero dosage, it feels remarkably complete: generous without sweetness, powerful without weight, and so naturally balanced that the lack of dosage fades into the background. The fruit comes from seven hectares of chalk- and clay-rich vineyards around Treslon in the Vallée de l’Ardre—often cited as Meunier’s spiritual home—where the fourth-generation Lagille family has long treated Meunier as their calling card. If any wine captures the soul of this domaine—its vineyards, its philosophy, and Vincent’s quiet confidence—it is La Garenne.

In the glass, the wine shows a glowing copper-pink hue and fine, persistent mousse, with aromas of red apple skin, wild raspberry, citrus, and a distinct chalky-earth note. The palate delivers everything Meunier lovers chase: macerated strawberry, blood orange zest, rhubarb, and subtle savory herbs on a creamy, finely textured frame. Sourced entirely from the 2022 vintage and disgorged in April 2025 with no dosage, it finishes long, clear, and mineral rather than austere, carrying a strong sense of place that lingers after each sip. This is Champagne built for the table, not just for toasts, and it shows its best alongside food that matches its red-fruited depth and brisk, saline backbone.

Why You’ll Love It

• Brut Nature Meunier that’s generous and complete, proving dosage isn’t required for balance.

• A pure expression of organically farmed Pinot Meunier from a single Vallée de l’Ardre lieu-dit.

• One of the most articulate, “soul-of-the-domaine” bottlings from a quietly top-tier grower.

How To Serve It

• Serve well chilled, around 48–50 °F, ideally in a white Burgundy or all-purpose stem.

• Pair with herb-roasted red snapper, pan-seared trout with brown butter and capers, or simple fish with lemon and greens.

• Give it a few minutes in the glass to open; enjoy now for its energy and detail, or over the next few years as complexity builds.