With Global Champagne Day taking place on October 24th, we spoke to Xavier Vigier – Head Sommelier and Venue Manager of CIRCL to discuss five favourite wineries that make the list at this Melbourne bar.
Elise Bougy
Elise Bougy’s wines perfectly embody what we value at CIRCL – authenticity, precision, and vibrancy. Elise’s commitment to organic and biodynamic farming, paired with her thoughtful, hands-off approach in the cellar, yields Champagnes that capture a rare depth of terroir and energy. Her cuvées are pure, elegant, and quietly complex, speaking with nuance rather than overt power. Each bottle feels alive, reflecting the character of her remarkable old vines and the chalk soils of Les Mesneux and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. These wines consistently surprise and delight; whether served at tastings or by the glass, guests respond to their clarity, balance, and beautiful persistence. Elise Bougy’s work is all about honest pleasure and the kind of authenticity that defines the CIRCL experience.
Domaine Jacques Selosse
I’ve always had a soft spot for Jacques Selosse wines – they blow people away. Every bottle is pure excitement: bold, layered, and impossible to ignore. Selosse Champagne is never boring; it brings real energy and personality to the table, and guests always find something new in the glass. I love pouring them at CIRCL because they spark conversations and set the mood for a fun, adventurous night. Whether someone’s tasting Selosse for the first time, or coming back for more, there’s nothing else quite like them.
Emmanuel Brochet
I love pouring Emmanuel Brochet’s Champagnes at CIRCL because they’re truly all about character and craft. His bottles are always fresh, pure, and packed with personality – there’s a kind of brightness and energy to his wines that really gets people’s attention. Brochet’s single vineyard parcels and organic approach mean every bottle has a great story, and the flavours are super vibrant, with loads of citrus, crisp apples, and a lovely mineral finish. They’re easy to enjoy, but always interesting enough to make even regulars sit up and take notice. For me, Brochet always brings a touch of excitement and something genuinely special to the line-up.
Jacques Lassaigne
Jacques Lassaigne’s wines are on our list at CIRCL because they represent a commitment to quality and tradition rooted in one of Champagne’s unique terroirs. The estate is family-owned, focusing on parcels in Montgueux, an area celebrated for its chalky soils and exceptional Chardonnay. Their approach combines organic practices with careful, minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the natural character of the vineyard to shine through in every bottle. We appreciate the wines for their crisp freshness, clarity, and subtle complexity, qualities that make them versatile and food-friendly – perfect for the diverse and thoughtful dining experience we offer at CIRCL. Supporting estates like Jacques Lassaigne aligns with our philosophy of showcasing authentic and expressive Champagne.
Charles Dufour
Charles Dufour’s wines bring a distinctive perspective from the Aube region’s lesser-known vineyards. Known for their natural and organic approach, the estate uses traditional techniques that highlight the unique qualities of their old vines. The result is Champagne with a straightforward, honest character – bright, fresh, and a bit earthy that complements a variety of dishes. These wines add diversity and depth to our list while supporting producers who value sustainability and authentic expression. It’s an important part of the story we want to tell through our wine selection.
How can we understand the different variations between champagnes?
Understanding the variations between Champagnes comes down to appreciating a combination of factors that influence the final wine. First, the grape varieties used play a significant role – primarily Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier – each contributing different characteristics. The region or terroir where the grapes are grown adds another layer of complexity, as soil types, climate, and vineyard practices directly impact flavour and texture. Additionally, the winemaking choices are crucial, including whether the Champagne is made from a single vintage or a blend of multiple years, the extent of aging on lees, and the dosage level which balances sweetness. Lastly, styles can range from bone dry Brut Nature to richer, fuller-bodied Champagnes. To truly grasp these differences, it helps to taste a range of styles side-by-side, noting the subtle shifts in aroma, acidity, texture, and finish, and to learn about the producers’ philosophies and vineyard sources that shape each bottle. This approach allows for a deeper connection and understanding beyond just the label.
