Map of Baslieux-sous-Châtillon from above, Champagne Eric Taillet marked with a wine glass

Tour · Baslieux-sous-Châtillon

Eric Taillet & The Meunier Institute

Founder of The Meunier Institute

In 2015, Eric Taillet did something radical: he created an official INSTITUTE for Pinot Meunier - the grape champagne aristocracy spent centuries dismissing as 'peasant.' Now his children Léna and Dylan run 6 hectares that are 75% Meunier. The resistance became the revolution.

What to do there

4 things to do

Eric Taillet founded the Meunier Institute in 2015 with Pierre-Yves Bournerias, a consulting oenologist who is the Institut's vice-president, and now his children Léna and Dylan manage the estate. This is ground zero for Meunier rehabilitation. Book 1-2 weeks ahead via champagne-taillet.com's Contact/Visit section, mentioning you're interested in the Meunier Institute story.
Backup: If they're unavailable, visit Moussé Fils in Cuisles (10 min away) - another Meunier specialist.

Log Memory
For centuries, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay got the prestige while Meunier was called "peasant grape" — useful for blending, never featured. Yet it's 32% of all plantings. During your tasting at Taillet, ask Eric or Léna/Dylan: "Why was Meunier dismissed?" They'll explain: Meunier ripens reliably even in cold years (insurance), adds fruitiness to blends (balance), but was never considered "noble."
Backup: Read the Meunier Institute manifesto online before visiting.

Log Memory
Compare a 100% Meunier cuvée against a traditional blend in the Taillet tasting room. The difference is profound: Meunier alone is fruity, round, approachable. In blends, it softens Pinot Noir's tannins and Chardonnay's acidity. Ask specifically for this comparison — most visitors don't know to request it.
Backup: Buy both bottles for €30-50 and compare at home.

Log Memory
The Institute published a declaration that Meunier deserves recognition as a noble variety, signed by growers across Champagne. This is activism in wine form. Ask during your visit if they have a copy of the manifesto or founding documents — it's a great conversation starter.
Backup: Search "Institut du Meunier Champagne" for press coverage.

Log Memory

Insider tips

Eric Taillet founded the Meunier Institute in 2015 with Pierre-Yves Bournerias
His children Léna and Dylan now run the 6-hectare estate
75% of their plantings are Meunier - not hiding it, celebrating it
The village Baslieux-sous-Châtillon is deep in Meunier country
Compare their wines to Part II growers - different philosophy, different grape
Affordable prices reflect Meunier's unfair reputation - great value