De Venoge - The forgotten elegance of Champagne
Since 1837, the De Venoge champagne house has stood for an almost forgotten side of Champagne: the art of the most delicate, filigree sparkling wines. The independent family house based in Épernay was once a supplier to European royalty and developed one of the region's first prestige cuvées, Cordon Bleu (not to be confused with the Cognac brand of the same name).
De Venoge has dedicated itself to the preservation of historical champagne styles. The De Venoge Brut Grand Vinis characterised by its unusually high dominance of Chardonnay (60%) and develops notes of white flowers, almond and a delicate minerality. The Louis XV cuvée, named after the French king, is a rare blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay - an almost extinct recipe that is reminiscent of the origins of Champagne.
The Collection Privilège series, in which each vintage matures on the lees for at least ten years, deserves special mention. The house cultivates its vineyards according to the principles of lutte raisonnée and does not use artificial yeasts.
A glass of De Venoge is like a visit to a museum - full of historical references, but of astonishing topicality.