William Saintot, Champagne 1er Cru AOC, Blanc de Noirs Oeil de Perdrix
NV, Champagne, France
Classification Champagne 1er Cru AOC
Colour / Type White, Sparkling
Bottle size 75cl
Alcohol 12%
Grape Pinot Noir
Drinking window 2030
Average score 91
Located in the Grande Vallee de la Marne, our vineyard of 10 hectares is mainly spread over 3 villages, Avenay Val d'Or, Mutigny and Bisseuil. All three are classified as Premier Cru. Mostly planted in Pinot Noir (85%), Chardonnay (12%), Pinot Meunier (2%), a tiny part of the vineyard was also planted in Petit Meslier (1%), one of the 4 forgotten grape varieties. This grape variety, which, before climate change, had trouble maturing on our lands, brings liveliness and a real freshness to the wines. Each village has its own terroir. Avenay Val d'Or is hilly and has Southeast to Southwest exposure. Its soils are silty, clayey, and deep in fragmented chalk. The result is Pinot viney. Our vines planted on Bisseuil give, they, wines of beautiful freshness with an interesting minerality bring not these clay lands of medium depth with a more compact chalk while the terroir of Mutigny brings, through its silts, a little lightness.
About William Saintot
Champagne William Saintot is a family-owned Champagne producer located in Aÿ, within the heart of the Montagne de Reims, France. The estate is rooted in a long tradition of winemaking, with the Saintot family cultivating vines since 1918. Today, the domain is managed by William Saintot, who represents the fifth generation of the family, continuing the legacy of passion and expertise in Champagne production.
The vineyard covers 10 hectares, predominantly planted with Pinot Noir, which thrives on the region’s unique terroir. The estate also grows Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, allowing for the creation of diverse and expressive cuvées. The vines are situated on south-facing slopes, benefiting from optimal sunlight and the region’s chalky soils, which contribute to the distinct minerality and character of the wines.
William Saintot places a strong emphasis on sustainable and responsible viticulture. The estate holds the High Environmental Value (HVE) certification and the Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne (VDC) label, reflecting their commitment to environmental stewardship. Vineyard management practices include grassing between rows, minimal use of pesticides, and careful soil maintenance to preserve biodiversity and soil health. Harvesting is done by hand to ensure the highest quality of grapes.
The winemaking process at Champagne William Saintot combines traditional methods with modern innovation. The grapes are gently pressed, and the juice is vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and purity of fruit. Some cuvées also undergo partial vinification in oak barrels, adding complexity and depth. Malolactic fermentation is carefully managed, and blending is performed with meticulous attention to detail, drawing from a palette of reserve wines to achieve consistency and balance.
The Champagne range includes several cuvées, each expressing the unique character of the terroir and the family’s winemaking philosophy. The Brut Tradition is a classic expression, dominated by Pinot Noir, offering notes of red fruit, freshness, and elegance. The Brut Rosé reveals vibrant berry aromas and a delicate structure, while the Blanc de Blancs highlights the finesse and minerality of Chardonnay. The estate also produces vintage Champagnes and special cuvées, showcasing the best parcels and exceptional years.
Visitors are welcomed to the estate for tours and tastings, where they can discover the family’s history, the vineyard’s exceptional terroir, and the meticulous processes behind each bottle. The elegant tasting room, set amidst the vineyards, provides a memorable setting to experience the wines and learn about Champagne production from vine to glass.
Champagne William Saintot’s philosophy centers on respect for nature, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence. Each bottle reflects the family’s dedication to quality, authenticity, and the unique identity of their terroir. With a focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to their heritage, Champagne William Saintot continues to produce wines that embody the spirit and elegance of the Champagne region.