Marc Hébrart 'Noces de Craie' Grand Cru 2018

Marc Hébrart Noces de Craie 2018 Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs

Producer: Marc Hébrart
Region: Champagne – Vallée de la Marne, France
Appellation: Aÿ Grand Cru
Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Vineyard Parcels: Cheuzelles, Longchamp, Pierre Robert, Pruche, Chauffour (Aÿ Grand Cru)
Soil: Predominantly chalk (craie)
Vintage: 2018
Vinification: Stainless steel
Malolactic Fermentation: Yes
Aging on Lees (sur latte): 36+ months
Disgorgement: November 2022
Dosage: 5 g/L (Extra Brut)

Description

“Noces de Craie”, or "Nuptials of Chalk", pays tribute to the iconic chalky soils of Aÿ, where Pinot Noir achieves its most refined expression. This Blanc de Noirs from Grand Cru vineyards is a masterful balance of fruited richness and piercing minerality, handcrafted by Jean-Paul Hébrart, one of Champagne’s most precise and intuitive growers.

The 2018 vintage is both dense and vibrant, with layers of expressive Pinot fruit supported by chalky tension and finely sculpted structure. Fermented in stainless steel, it preserves the clarity of fruit and terroir, while the long aging on lees adds depth and nuance.

Complex, textured, and elegant, this Champagne is a perfect match for gastronomic exploration or meditative sipping — a wine that unfolds over time in the glass, revealing new dimensions with every taste.

Tasting Notes

Vinous – 94 pts (Nov 2023):
“The 2018 Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs Noces de Craie is a powerful and vibrant Champagne, with deep Pinot fruit and incisive chalky veins. There is weight and presence, especially in a year where many Champagnes are lighter. A great wine.”

Jancis Robinson – 17/20 (May 2024):
“Starts with exuberant fruit — nectarines, greengages, a hint of pineapple candy — then moves into chestnut and maple syrup. A Champagne that builds with each sip. Persistent, layered, and rewarding.”

Suggested Pairings

• Seared tuna with sesame crust

• Wild mushroom risotto

• Stuffed quail

• Aged Comté or Langres cheese

• Chestnut soup with truffles