Elise Godin

Among the emerging names in Champagne, Élise Godin stands out as one of the most intriguing and promising projects. The daughter of grower-producers, she grew up in Fontaine-sur-Aÿ in the Grande Vallée de la Marne, observing her parents’ work for years and nurturing the desire to give her family’s grapes a voice of her own. The turning point came with the 2020 harvest, when she selected the best clusters and vinified part of them independently: this marked her debut as a vigneronne, with an artisanal, personal approach deeply rooted in her territory.

Her boldest decision was to plant Chardonnay in a vineyard traditionally dominated by Pinot Noir, with the aim of highlighting a distinctive terroir. The plot lies on brown limestone soils over a layer of chalky colluvium, a profile that imparts finesse and mineral tension to the grapes. The vineyard, certified VDC, is managed using sustainable practices: natural ground cover, organic fertilizers and the sowing of cover crops—plants grown between the rows to protect and enrich the soil, improving its structure, nutrients, biodiversity and natural balance.

In the cellar, Élise follows an essential and transparent approach: spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts, vinification in stainless steel, and extended lees ageing. The minimal dosage after dégorgement reflects her intention to preserve the identity of Chardonnay from Fontaine-sur-Aÿ, a terroir she still sees as evolving. With limited production and meticulous oversight of every step, she aims to build an authentic and recognizable signature, shaped by contemporary sensibility, environmental respect and a deep understanding of her land.