NV A. Margaine "L'Extra Brut" 1er Cru Extra Brut, Champagne, France

ABOUT THE WINE

A. Margaine “Le Brut” is a refined non-vintage Premier Cru Champagne crafted from approximately 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir grown in the chalk-rich vineyards of Villers-Marmery, a distinctive village in the Montagne de Reims celebrated for its Chardonnay. The cuvée combines wines from the current harvest with carefully selected reserve wines, creating a harmonious balance of youthful freshness and mature complexity. Fermentation takes place primarily in stainless steel, preserving the purity of the fruit and the vineyard’s characteristic mineral expression, while extended aging on the lees contributes richness, fine bubbles, and delicate notes of brioche and toasted almond. A carefully measured Brut dosage softens the wine’s vibrant acidity without diminishing its precision, resulting in a Champagne that is both approachable and sophisticated. Its expressive citrus and orchard fruit character, creamy texture, and refreshing mineral finish make it an excellent aperitif and a versatile partner for oysters, seared scallops, smoked salmon, roast chicken, or creamy cheeses.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Founded in the early 20th century, A. Margaine is a family-owned grower Champagne estate located in Villers-Marmery, a Premier Cru village on the eastern slopes of the Montagne de Reims. Led by fourth-generation winemaker Arnaud Margaine, the domaine has earned a reputation for producing exceptionally pure, Chardonnay-focused Champagnes that reflect the distinctive chalk soils and cool growing conditions of its vineyards. The family cultivates approximately 6.5 hectares, with Chardonnay representing the vast majority of its plantings, an unusual distinction in the predominantly Pinot Noir-driven Montagne de Reims. Sustainable vineyard management, careful soil cultivation, and meticulous attention to fruit quality are central to the estate’s philosophy. In the cellar, Arnaud emphasizes gentle handling, controlled fermentation, and thoughtful blending, allowing the natural elegance and minerality of Villers-Marmery to remain at the forefront. Combining generations of traditional craftsmanship with a precise, contemporary approach, A. Margaine produces Champagnes celebrated for their freshness, finesse, and exceptional sense of place.