The charms of Côte des Bar: Champagne’s not-so-hidden gem
Nestled in the southern reaches of the Champagne region lies a former hidden gem, that’s being discovered by more and more wine lovers – the Côte des Bar. This champagne region, south-east of Troyes, was often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts up North. Yet, it’s home to a rich winemaking heritage and a distinctive terroir that sets it apart from the rest. Even though the rest didn’t welcome them at first.
Côte de who?
The Côte des Bar stretches along the Aube department, including both Bar-sur-Aube and Bar-sur-Seine. The champagne sub region was initially regarded as an outlier for being located too far south, and had to fight for recognition as part of Champagne’s wine landscape. Despite the initial skepticism, Côte des Bar has proven its worth, becoming renowned for its unique expression of champagne.
In fact, Côte des Bar is currently the coolest of them all.
Terroir and Soil Composition: The Essence of Côte de Bar
Before anything, Côte des Bar is the land of Pinot Noir. This is thanks to the climate (slightly warmer than the rest of the Champagne region) and the composition of the soil beneath the vines (perfect drainage, something Pinot Noir grapes love).
While chalk remains a prominent feature, the region also boasts soils rich in clay and sand, offering a varied terroir that lends complexity to its wines.
The Allure of Côte des Bar: A Region of Innovation
Another thing that sets the Côte des Bar apart is its proximity to Burgundy. It’s actually closer to the Burgundy border than the traditional epicenter of Champagne, Epernay. Apart from a warmer climate and a terroir that diverges from the typical Champagne landscape, champagne makers in Côte des Bar are in close contact with their southern neighbours, whose production methods inspire them to do things differently.
As the underdog of the Champagne world, the Côte des Bar has become a breeding ground for innovation, attracting visionary winemakers who push the boundaries of traditional Champagne-making techniques.
If you can’t join them - beat them. Right?
Organic Côte des Bar champagne Rockstars
Among the luminaries of the Côte des Bar are a group of organic champagne producers who produce exceptional champagnes that embody the essence of the region. From the avant-garde Olivier Horiot and the talented Marie Courtin to the beloved Roses de Jeanne by Cédric Bouchard, these trailblazers showcase the diversity and creativity thriving within the Côte des Bar.
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Long story short: as you explore the world of Champagne, don’t overlook the allure of the Côte des Bar! There are exceptional wines to discover and more than enough hotspots to explore, one of them being Aux Crieurs de Vin in Troyes.
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