Champagne Konrat is a family estate in Montigny-sous-Châtillon in the Marne Valley, near Épernay. Faustine and Marc Konrat, growers in the fourth generation, took over the family property in 2018, after the vines had lain fallow for 50 years. The family combines two traditions: champagne growers on one side, growers and coopers from Anjou on the other.
The 7 hectares of vines lie in a single commune on sandy and clay-limestone soils and are being converted to organic farming. The parcels are vinified individually. The wines are made by the lunar calendar, with ageing on the full lees in champagne oak barrels, amphorae and demijohns, along with a perpetual reserve and storage on wooden staves. Production is small: about 5,000 bottles a year.
The range includes Collection IV, Rosé, Blanc de Noirs, Velours and a vintage champagne. Collection IV is the calling card of the house, a non-vintage brut of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier, made exclusively from Montigny-sous-Châtillon. The old Meunier vineyard "Le Grain de sel" gives it much of its character. The 2018 vintage is an extra brut that can be cellared for around ten years. The wines are aimed at the restaurant trade, and the house is a member of the independent growers (Vignerons Indépendants).
