2012 Champagne Hervé Rafflin 1er Cru La Nature'L Extra Brut Millesime, 750ml

Hervé Rafflin took over his small family winery in 2001, though his familial roots in Champagne date back to the 1840s. The estate’s 5 hectares are situated in the heart of the Montagne de Reims in the villages of Chigny-les- Rosé s, Ludes, Rilly la Montagne and Taissy. A little over half of the vines are dedicated Pinot Meunier, with the rest rounded out by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Vines average 30-40 years in age and as of 2021 are certified organic. The estate puts out anywhere from 5,000 to 13,000 bottles annually, depending on the vintage. The wines are delicious, unpretentious, and always reflective of the growing season and the unique terroir of the Montagne de Reims. At Rafflin, nature dictates business, not demand.