A tour through the Champagne region of France reveals that Champagne is not only home to the famous houses known throughout the world, but to hundreds of small to medium-sized producers of quality Champagne that truly reflects the character of their particular locale and the style of the producer. Many of these producers are known as récoltants-manipulants, which means that they harvest their own grapes and produce their own Champagne. These are truly the Champagnes of the future as their relatively small production insures more reasonable prices and continuing product quality.
Champagne Marguet Père et Fils is a classic example of this type of producer. The property has been in the family for generations and producing quality Champagne since 1905. All of the grapes come from vineyards, within the coveted “Grand Cru” district, where the quality of the fruit is at the level of the best Champagnes. Planted only to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the wines of this producer are elegant and delicious.
Vintage champagne is always a reflection of the best a champagne producer with the gifts offered by nature. That is why the vintage champagne is only made in the best years. Benoit Marguet uses 50-75% Chardonnay in his vintage champagnes and balances the blend with Pinot Noir. “The intensity and finesse are unforgettable...Not to enjoy only for the very best event” says Benoit when sipping his recent vintage bottling. You can age this champagne for 20 years if stored well.
www.champagne-marguet.fr
Grand Crus vs The Grandes Marques (The Large Champagne Houses)
A tour through the Champagne region of France reveals that Champagne is not only home to the famous houses known throughout the world, but to hundreds of small to medium-sized producers of quality Champagne that truly reflects the character of their particular locale and the style of the producer. Many of these producers are known as récoltants-manipulants, which means that they harvest their own grapes and produce their own Champagne. These are truly the Champagnes of the future as their relatively small production insures more reasonable prices and continuing product quality.
