Champagne David Léclapart

David was certified Ecocert and Demeter in 2000, making him a very early adopter of chemical free farming within the context of Champagne and its long love affair with industrialized processes. Native yeasts, enameled steel (defiantly not stainless, as David feels stainless imparts a “negative energy“), small used oak barrels, and full malolactic fermentation are all part of the program. No dosage ever, of course. There is a much stronger emphasis here on the vineyard than the cellar, which is pretty countercultural for a region defined by “house style” and conventional farming, to put it lightly. These are true individualistic expressions of vintage and the south easterly slopes of Trépail and its surrounding forests. - Zev Rovine Selections

About the Winemaker

Champagne David Léclapart

David Léclapart stands as the fourth-generation custodian of his family's cherished 3-hectare estate nestled in Trépail, a premier cru village ensconced in the Montagne de Reims. Following the passing of his father in 1996, David assumed the winemaking legacy, debuting his eponymous label in 1998.

Amidst these 3 hectares lie 20 parcels of Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay (the predominant varietal in Trépail), and Pinot Noir, all rooted in chalky marls. A trailblazer in sustainable viticulture, David attained Ecocert and Demeter certifications in 2000, pioneering chemical-free farming practices in Champagne's landscape steeped in industrialized methodologies.

The Region

Champagne, France

Natural wine production in Champagne, France, is a burgeoning movement within the region's esteemed winemaking tradition. Situated in northeastern France, Champagne is renowned for its chalky soils and cool climate, which provide an ideal terroir for cultivating the classic grape varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Natural winemakers in Champagne embrace organic and biodynamic farming practices, nurturing their vineyards with care and respect for the land. In the cellar, they employ minimalist techniques, allowing the grapes to ferment spontaneously with native yeasts and minimal sulfur usage, resulting in wines that authentically express the terroir of Champagne. The resulting natural Champagnes are vibrant, elegant, and reflective of the region's unique landscapes and winemaking traditions. With their lively acidity, delicate bubbles, and complex flavors, natural Champagnes offer a taste of France's winemaking heritage and a glimpse into the future of sustainable