The Etienne Calsac Champagne Les Revenants Brut Nature 2020 is a unique and expressive cuvée that revives three traditional Champagne grape varieties: 50% Pinot Blanc, 45% Petit Meslier, and 5% Arbane. These heritage grapes, sourced from south-facing vineyards in the Côte de Sézanne, are planted in sandy-clay soils over chalk subsoils, providing the wine with its distinctive character. Etienne Calsac, known for his dedication to organic practices and terroir-driven winemaking, vinifies this Champagne with spontaneous fermentation in 600-liter oak barrels, followed by 30 months of lees aging under cork. Bottled without dosage, this Brut Nature style emphasizes purity, energy, and the unique identity of these rare grapes.
On the nose, this Champagne opens with aromas of citrus zest, green apple, and lime, complemented by notes of stony minerality, fennel, and a touch of brioche. On the palate, it is vibrant and medium-bodied, with fine, intense bubbles and flavors of green apple, lime, and chalky minerality. The finish is long and refreshing, showcasing the wine’s crisp acidity and terroir-driven complexity.
This Champagne pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as oysters, seared scallops, or sushi, and its bright acidity also complements creamy cheeses like Brie or Chaource. While approachable now for its vibrancy and precision, the Etienne Calsac Champagne Les Revenants Brut Nature 2020 will reward careful cellaring over the next 5–7 years, gaining additional depth and nuance. It is a remarkable tribute to Champagne’s heritage and a testament to Etienne Calsac’s innovative craftsmanship.