One of the most memorable lineup tastings we've had this year was when we sampled the entire range of offerings from Pouillon. Truth be told, we could've selected any of them as they were all compelling, but this 'Grand Valle' bottling served as the perfect introduction to not only the house style, but to the terroirs of the Vallée de la Marne. This is an all estate fruit blend of roughly 65% pinot noir, 20% pinot meunier, and 15% chardonnay. Aged in a mix of enamel tanks and neutral barrique, it displays a complex, earthy nose with sophisticated notes of savory wet stones and a hint of rhubarb. On the palate, it delivers powerful, structured flavors of peach and bitter pear skin that somehow manage to feel as light as a feather, over a showstopping, angular texture.