Andre Lenique

The champagne house of André Lenique is based in Mardeuil, a few kilometres from Épernay. According to the house, its history goes back to 1768, when Alexandre Lenique founded it. Since then the estate has been passed down within the family. Today it is run by Marion, André's daughter, as a propriétaire-récoltant. The grapes are grown in the family's own vineyard, and the champagne is made in the family's own cellars.

Vineyard and approach

The family farms around 4 hectares of vines. Older directories give just under 5 hectares. The three classic champagne grape varieties are grown: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Viticulture follows the principle of "viticulture raisonnée", a measured approach guided by what the vines actually need. In 2020 the estate received two certifications: HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) and VDC (Viticulture Durable en Champagne).

The cuvées

The range runs from Brut through Demi-sec and Extra-brut to Brut Rosé. The grower names the Blanc de Blancs and the Blanc de Noirs as the specialities of the house. Well-known cuvées carry first names:

• Cuvée Marion (Rosé)
• Cuvée Emilie
• Cuvée Rosella

The bottles come in various sizes, from magnum up to the 6-litre Methuselah. The house also makes champagne confits.

One thing to avoid: Champagne Lenique in Pierry, a separate house with its own website, also gives 1768 and Alexandre Lenique as its founding date and founder. The address in Mardeuil belongs to the house of André Lenique profiled here.

Visits and tastings

The house offers cellar tours with a tasting by prior appointment, free of charge according to the Vignerons de Mardeuil. According to the house, there is also a party cellar for 40 to 50 people, where shared meals can be arranged. To book, call +33 3 26 55 07 82 or email contact@champagne-andre-lenique.com.