Etienne Calsac
Domaine Etienne Calsac: The Rising Star of Avize
A Bold Beginning to Reveal Forgotten Terroirs
The story of Etienne Calsac began in 2010. Driven by a precocious passion for wine, Etienne made a bold decision to create his own estate, renting vines from his grandparents in Avize. At the heart of this adventure is Chardonnay, but Etienne didn’t stop there. He chose to replant old grape varieties such as Arbane and Petit Meslier on some plots, reviving long-forgotten varieties. His vineyard stretches across prestigious terroirs, from the Côte des Blancs to the Côte des Bar, each sector adding its own nuance to the aromatic palette of his wines.
An Unconventional and Determined Journey
Etienne is a self-taught young winemaker, driven by unwavering determination. Unlike most of his peers, he didn’t grow up among the vines. His love for wine was nurtured by the precious bottles his father opened and the vines of his grandparents in Avize. At 15, he began formal training in viticulture and oenology, which took him around the worldbefore returning to Avize to realize his dream. Launching in 2010 with just 3 small hectares of vines was a colossal challenge. But his drive for excellence and deep belief that wine quality begins in the vineyard guided him through the early difficulties.
Natural Vinification and Growing Recognition
Etienne Calsac’s winemaking is defined by thoughtful minimalism. Spontaneous fermentations and aging in woodreflect his desire to preserve the identity of the terroir. Each bottle tells a unique story — a sincere expression of its origin.
Ten years on, Domaine Etienne Calsac is now a reference in the world of terroir-driven Champagnes. Recognized as a “great winemaker of tomorrow,” Etienne produces a highly confidential range prized by sommeliers, characterized by a delicate balance of finesse, liveliness, generosity, and power. Chardonnay takes center stage, supported by cherished heritage grape varieties. Etienne’s curiosity, his commitment to living soils (certified organic), and his skill in preserving freshness in his wines make him a rising figure on the wine scene.
In short, the name Etienne Calsac now resonates as a rising star in Avize. This talented young winemaker offers Champagnes that capture the vitality and clarity of the fruit, while honoring the authentic expression of Champagne soils. On the Route des Blancs, Domaine Etienne Calsac stands out as an essential, confidential, and exciting stop — ready to write new chapters in the history of terroir Champagnes.