Marie-Courtin: The Pendulum Lady

Dominique Moreau uses pendulums to evaluate grape evolution. 3.2 hectares of pure poetry. Biodynamic before it was fashionable. The wines are named after her daughters and mother. This is champagne as personal expression - each bottle carries family history and radical philosophy.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Ask About the Pendulum Method Wine · Free

   Dominique uses a pendulum to evaluate when grapes are ready, when to intervene, when to leave them alone during your visit at the domaine in Polisot. It sounds mystical but produces remarkable wines. Ask (in French): "Pouvez-vous expliquer comment vous utilisez le pendule?" She'll demonstrate if she trusts you're genuinely curious.

   Backup: Read about her methods beforehand - Star Wine List has a good profile.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Taste the Family-Named Cuvées Wine · Price: moderate

   "Présence" is named for her presence in the wine, "Résonance" for how the wines resonate - each bottle is deeply personal during the tasting at her cellar. Let her guide the experience and ask which cuvée represents her philosophy best, then ask about the naming: "Pourquoi ce nom?" There's a story behind each.

   Backup: If she doesn't offer the background, ask: "Pourquoi ce nom?"

   Log Memory
3. 3 See the 3.2 Hectares Adventure · Free · Optional

   Her 3.2 hectares is tiny - about 8 acres where every vine is personally tended around Polisot. Biodynamic practices mean wild plants grow between rows. Ask if you can walk a parcel with her - the vineyards are the living expression of her philosophy.

   Backup: If she's too busy, drive past the vineyards after - she'll have pointed them out.

   Log Memory

Insider tips

• Extremely private producer - email well in advance

• Expect French-only communication and visit

• Her daughter now makes wine under "Dame Jeanne" label

• Production is tiny - wines often unavailable

• Read Star Wine List profile before visiting

• Polisot is a very small village - don't expect any infrastructure