Location and landscape
Celles-sur-Ource is a commune in the department of Aube in the region of Champagne. The commune, which covers around 9.6 km², is traversed by the Ource and lies at about 172 metres above sea level in a landscape surrounded by vineyard slopes.
Terroir and winegrowing
The vineyards of Celles-sur-Ource are situated on clay- and limestone-rich soils linked to Jurassic Kimmeridgian formations. Local winegrowing produces wines under the Champagne appellation; documented grape varieties include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and the comparatively rare Pinot Blanc.
The range includes Champagne Blanc de Noirs, Blanc de Blancs, Rosé and Coteaux Champenois. Celles-sur-Ource is also included in the geographical area of the Coteaux Champenois appellation. The climate combines oceanic influences with regular rainfall and small seasonal temperature differences with continental influences, summer sunshine and sometimes damaging frosts.
Local history
The seigneurie of Celles passed into the ownership of the Abbey of Molesme in 1250. In 1547, a paper mill was set up alongside an already existing mill. A major fire destroyed the five houses of the village’s most important residents in 1663. By decree of 30 January 1897, the commune was allowed to adopt the name Celles-sur-Ource.
According to local winemaker tradition, after the economic crisis of 1929 families from the village began producing their own champagne; local champagnisation is documented from the harvest of 1930.
Cellar and development practices
Champagne Brocard Pierre documents for selected vintages a long lees ageing period as well as varietal wines from a single hillside. The wines are completely vinified in stainless steel; nitrogen is used to limit the addition of sulphur dioxide. A traditional method includes a vertical Coquard press.
