Charles Dufour
Charles Dufour farms six certified organic hectares in Landreville, Essoyes and Celles-sur-Ource in the Côtes des Bars, some of which were planted by his grandfather. A one-man show - grower, winemaker, owner - Charles has been referred to as “the Selosse of the Aube” and Bulles de Comptior the house pour at NOMA. After learning about winemaking from his father, he spent some time abroad and returned to Champagne to take over the estate, converting to organic viticulture, which was certified in 2010. He has become somewhat of a cult superstar in the organic/natural winemaking scene and his wines are made in small quantities, nearly impossible to find.
CÔTE DES BAR || The Côte des Bar is located in the southern part of the Champagne region, the Aube. Unlike the densely planted vineyards of the Marne, the patchwork of vines here are found among lush valleys interspersed with forest, farms, and streams. Pinot Noir dominates the landscape, comprising over eighty percent of vines, all on Kimmeridgian limestone bedrock. Historically, grapes from the region were sold to big houses until recently a relatively recent revolt by some creative artisans such as Cedric Bouchard introduced us to these remarkable, terroir-driven Champagnes.
