Ambonnay

Ambonnay (postcode 51150) is a picturesque village in the Champagne region of France, more precisely in the Montagne de Reims region, which is characterised by its charming, historic atmosphere. The municipality is located around 15 kilometres east of Épernay and, according to the latest data, has a population of around 1,016 inhabitants (as of 2023) - a slight increase since the 976 inhabitants of 2016.

Historical background and naming

The name Ambonnay is possibly derived from a Roman officer named Amboniacus, who allegedly lived under Emperor Probus (Marcus Aurelius Probus). Emperor Probus was known for promoting wine production in Gaul, which is now France. It is believed that he ordered the planting of new vines in the region, which may have contributed to the early establishment of viticulture in Ambonnay.

Geographical location and viticulture

Ambonnay is part of the 17 communes that bear the prestigious Grand Cru status within the Champagne region. This means that the wines from Ambonnay are among the best in the region. With a vineyard area of around 384 hectares (as of 2023), Ambonnay is the second largest commune with full Grand Cru status in Champagne after Verzenay. This area is divided into around 312 hectares of Pinot Noir and 72 hectares of Chardonnay.

The vineyards in Ambonnay extend mainly to the north and north-west of the village and are located at altitudes between 120 and 180 metres above sea level. The northernmost vineyards, which lie at altitudes of 200 to 220 metres, border the vineyards of Bouzy. Despite the geographical proximity, there are striking differences in the wines of the two regions, which can be attributed to different microclimates and soil conditions.

Wineries and champagne houses

Ambonnay is home to several renowned winegrowers and champagne houses that have contributed to the region's international renown. Among the best known are:

• Champagne Roger Coulon: Ein Familienbetrieb, der für seine traditionellen Methoden und hochwertigen Champagne bekannt ist. Das Haus Coulon legt großen Wert auf Nachhaltigkeit und biologische Anbaupraktiken.
• Champagne Pierre Gimonnet & FilsAnother prominent house specialising in the production of elegant champagnes. The Gimonnet family have been running their vineyards for several generations and are renowned for their expertise in handling Chardonnay.
• Champagne LallierThis house combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. Lallier produces a range of excellent Grand Cru Champagnes that are recognised for both their quality and their refinement.
• Champagne VollereauxAnother important winery in Ambonnay, known for its fresh and expressive champagnes. Vollereaux offers a wide range of champagnes that reflect the diversity of the region.

Viticulture and wine quality

The vineyards of Ambonnay benefit from the ideal climatic conditions of the Montagne de Reims. The microclimate that prevails there, combined with the chalky soils, enables the cultivation of vines that produce exceptionally good wines and champagnes. The main variety is Pinot Noir, which thrives particularly well here and gives the wines from Ambonnay their characteristic depth and complexity. Chardonnay is also appreciated and gives the champagnes a fine freshness and elegance.

The special features of the wine region

The speciality of the Ambonnay wine region lies not only in the quality of the wines, but also in the diversity of the terroirs within the municipality. While the vineyards to the north and north-west of the village dominate, the neighbouring vineyards of Bouzy show a different composition of terroir. These differences in soil type, location and climate result in a fascinating spectrum of flavour profiles and styles in the region's wines and champagnes.

The history and tradition of viticulture in Ambonnay is deeply rooted, and the region has earned a place among the best champagne producers in the world through continuous innovation and passion for the craft. The first-class quality of the wines and champagnes produced there makes Ambonnay an important place within the Champagne region.

Summary

Ambonnay is a small but important wine village in Champagne, known for its high-quality champagnes and its historical significance. With its large vineyard area and impressive number of renowned Champagne houses, it plays a central role in the region's wine production. The vineyards of Ambonnay provide an excellent example of the diversity and quality that Champagne has to offer.

Champagne Noel Leblond-Lenoir Cuvée Arbane BdB Brut 0,75L

While the vineyards of Ambonnay are primarily south-east to east-facing, the vineyards of Bouzy are located on south-facing slopes. This has an effect on the style of the wines. Ambonnay grapes produce wines with a distinctive flavour, full and rich, with bite, similar to that of Bouzy, but with a more floral note. Since the beginning of the 18th century, Ambonnay has been known and famous for its red still wines, even if the neighbouring wines from Bouzy are now more appreciated.