The Golden Age of Grower Champagne | Quentin Paillard

“We decided to produce less and make better wine — wine that has a stronger identity.” Champagne Pierre Paillard traces its roots to the early 18th century, when the family settled in Bouzy. The Paillards’ story in wine began when Antoine Paillard acquired several parcels of vines in Bouzy, establishing the family’s legacy as viticulturists. Today, brothers Antoine and Quentin Paillard represent the eighth generation to lead the domaine, having taken over from their father in the eartly 2010s. In this episode, Quentin and Skurnik’s French Portfolio Director, David Hinkle, talk about the decisions and their efforts that propelled Paillard to become one of the top growers in Champagne. 00:00 Introduction and history 05:54 Old massal selection vines 09:56 Introducing Pinot Fin 12:11 Advantages of high-density plantation 14:47 Bouzy Grand Cru identity 15:30 Organic certification 19:46 Oak and old-school winemaking 25:38 Dosage 27:54 The culmination of decades of effort