NV Philipponnat "Royale Réserve" Brut, Champagne, France

ABOUT THIS WINE:

First press juice of mainly Grand and Premier Crus grapes from the heart of the Champagne wine-growing area. 20 to 30% of reserve wines are aged in wooden barrels using the solera system to incorporate older wines without losing freshness. Vinified using traditional methods to avoid premature oxidation. Partial malolactic fermentation and reserve wines aged in casks to allow the aromas to develop complexity. Moderate dosage (8 g/litre) to maintain a balance between freshness, fruitiness and vinosity without masking the wine’s character and purity. Aged on the lees in the House’s cellars at a constant temperature of 12°C for three years, far longer than the legal minimum requirement of 15 months.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER:

The House of Philipponnat is located at the very heart of the Champagne region, in the village of Mareuil-sur-Ay, five kilometers east of Épernay. Just about 100 meters from the Romanesque church of Saint-Hilaire, and not far from the river Marne, you'll come upon the classical façade of the House of Philipponnat, its grand courtyard and monumental portal bearing the House's coat of arms.
Not far from there, near the vineyard, in the historical cellars dating back to the 18th century, Philipponnat Champagnes are aging slowly in total silence and perfect darkness.

The House of Philipponnat is heir to traditions maintained by generations of cellar masters. Today, Philipponnat produces approximately 500,000 bottles comprising a complete range recognized by the greatest connoisseurs. From the Brut Royale Reserve, the true ambassador of the House, to the vintage Cuvee du Clos des Goisses, these are rich and structured wines, with blends dominated by the Pinot Noir offered to lovers of fine wines. Also, the House of Philipponnat has an exceptional collection of Old Vintage Champagnes quietly ageing on lees in cellars whose exact location is a closely guarded secret.