L'Echapee Belle Champagne by Etienne Calsac NV

When Etienne Calsac established his own Champagne brand back in 2010, he had a clear vision right from the beginning. He aimed to create a unique cuvée using grapes from a small vineyard located in Avize. This particular 0.10-hectare vineyard had been planted by his grandparents in their backyard just outside the historic village's centre. It was a distinct clos, surrounded by the walls of their property.

In Champagne, using the term ‘clos’ on a label required a special permit, so Etienne needed a name for this specific plot. According to the cadastral maps, the official name of this land was 'Les Maladrières' or 'Les Maladries,' referring to the place where sick individuals (les malades) were brought during the plague. Instead of shying away from this somewhat grim history, Etienne chose to embrace it. He featured the iconic plague doctor on the label, complete with the distinctive beak-like mask believed to be filled with aromatic herbs and spices, which the doctor used for protection.

Certainly, the character of this terroir has evolved significantly since the Middle Ages. Today, Etienne's beloved vineyard is cultivated organically, plowed with horses, and meticulously crafted to be the flagship Champagne of his collection.