Daniel Caillez Et Fils

A family estate in Damery

Daniel Caillez comes from a winegrowing family and founded his estate in 1977. The Hachette wine guide describes how he built up the vineyard and the brand in Damery, across the river from Épernay. His son Vincent joined the estate ten years later and took over the running of it in 2002. The house's website gives 2003 for this, the year his father retired. Since then Vincent has brought a modern touch without giving up the methods and traditions of Champagne. The commercial register lists Vincent Caillez as manager since 19 January 2005.

One mix-up is worth avoiding: in the same street, at number 14, stands Caillez-Lemaire, an independent house with its own history. You will find Daniel Caillez et Fils at number 19, and online at champagnedanielcaillez.fr.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The vines lie in the Marne Valley. The figures vary depending on the source: Hachette gives 5.6 hectares, the directory of the Vignerons Indépendants 5.30 hectares. The three grape varieties of Champagne are grown: Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The grapes come exclusively from the estate's own vineyards. The house describes its work in the vineyard as passionate and environmentally aware. The estate is certified as an Exploitation de Haute Valeur Environnementale.

Cuvées and visiting

According to the website, the range includes the cuvées Première, Référence and Héritage, among others, as well as a rosé and a demi-sec. The Référence blends three quarters dark grapes, half of them Meunier, with a quarter Chardonnay. That is the picture for the 2001 vintage, which Hachette reviewed in 2007. The guide praised its minerality, roundness, balance and length. The Brut Héritage, aged in oak barrels, won a silver medal for the 2011 vintage in 2017 at the Vignerons Indépendants competition. Alongside the champagne, the directory also lists a ratafia.

Tastings and sales take place directly at the estate, 19 Rue Pierre Curie in Damery. It is a good idea to book ahead by telephone on +33 3 26 58 46 02.