Benoît Déhu : La Rue des Noyers 2020

Characteristics and tasting notes for La Rue des Noyers 2020 by Benoît Déhu

Tasting notes

Appearance
The colour reveals a golden hue with a satiny sheen, subtly enhanced by elegant copper glints.

Nose
Complex and structured, the nose opens on aromas of green apple, peach and yellow fruits. It is then enriched with notes of white flowers and violet, accompanied by a lovely minerality and a touch of spice.

Palate
A very fresh attack gives way to a broad mid-palate with a silky texture. Taut and saline, the palate stretches into a long, remarkably precise finish.

Food and wine pairings

This white wine pairs beautifully with seafood such as oysters, sushi or white fish. It also goes wonderfully with fresh goat's cheese, as well as white meats such as poultry or veal.

Serving and cellaring

For optimal enjoyment, this wine is best served at a temperature of between 10 and 12°C. Its structure allows it to be briefly aerated in large glasses. It can be enjoyed now and will continue to evolve until around 2030.

The pure expression of Meunier in a terroir-driven Coteaux Champenois by Benoît Déhu

The estate

Founded in 1787 in Fossoy, at the western edge of the Marne Valley, the family house is now run by Benoît Déhu, representing the eighth generation. After gaining formative experience within a major House, he has brought fresh momentum to the estate. He set aside certain plots to create a micro-estate focused on biodynamics, agroforestry and the promotion of Meunier. Certified organic since 2020, the estate stands out for its artisanal approach and its commitment to producing terroir-driven wines of great precision.

The vineyard

The single 1.70-hectare plot, planted in 1972, sits atop a south-east-facing hillside bordered by forest. Divided into three sections according to rootstock, this terroir benefits from biodynamic practices, horse-drawn soil work across part of the surface, and an ambitious agroforestry programme involving the planting of trees at the heart of the vines. This exceptional vineyard gives rise to this great still white wine under the Coteaux Champenois appellation.

Winemaking and aging

The making of La Rue des Noyers 2020 relies on fermentations triggered by indigenous yeasts in oak barrels crafted from trees sourced from the neighbouring forest. To preserve maximum tension, malolactic fermentation is blocked. The wine then undergoes extended lees ageing to refine its texture and aromatic complexity.

Grape variety

Pinot Meunier (100%)