NV Denis Salomon Extra Brut “Histoire de Famille”, Champagne, France

ABOUT THE WINE
Histoire de Famille is Denis Salomon’s signature multi-vintage Extra Brut Champagne, crafted from estate-grown fruit in the Côte des Bar, near Les Riceys. The cuvée is 100% Pinot Meunier, which thrives in the marl and Kimmeridgian limestone soils of the region. Vinified with native yeasts and aged sur latte for an extended period, the wine is bottled with minimal dosage (Extra Brut) to preserve clarity and site expression.

This Champagne shows aromas of crisp apple, lemon curd, white flowers, and crushed stone, layered with hints of toasted hazelnut and pastry from lees aging. The mouthfeel is linear and mouthwatering, with a firm acid spine, delicate bubbles, and a finish that echoes chalk, citrus pith, and savory herbs.

Ideal with raw shellfish, smoked trout, hard cheeses, or simple poultry dishes, it also excels as an aperitif. The structure and depth suggest short- to mid-term aging potential (2–4 years) for added complexity.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Denis Salomon is a small, family-run grower estate based in Balnot-sur-Laignes, in the southern Champagne subregion of the Côte des Bar—an area prized for its ripe Pinot Noir and distinctive soils. With a deep multigenerational history in the region (hence Histoire de Famille), the domaine emphasizes sustainable viticulture and a clear expression of place.

Salomon’s winemaking style is low-intervention and precise, using spontaneous fermentations, long lees aging, and low dosage to preserve each parcel's character. His Champagnes, while understated, stand out for their purity, texture, and mineral clarity, offering a thoughtful alternative to the more commercial houses.

Histoire de Famille is not only a nod to lineage—it’s a testament to terroir, tradition, and meticulous, hands-on winemaking.