Aurélien Gerbais is another story of a young producer taking over for his family's fourth-generation estate. The Gerbais family owns 18 hectares of vines, 10 of Pinot Noir, 4 of Chardonnay, and 4 of Pinot Blanc in Celles sur Ource (Aube). The estate transitioned to organic farming after the family witnessed the effects of pesticides on the vines and vineyard workers. Champ Viole is a curious blend of Chardonnay; half a base vintage and the other a solera reserve that started in 2011. It ferments in stainless steel, aged on its lees, and is then cellared for 36 months.
- Becky Wasserman