Daniel Champion

The Daniel Champion estate lies in the hamlet of Boutavent, part of Bergères-sous-Montmirail in the Marne département. According to the house, the Champion family has worked this hill for around 220 years, now in eight generations. The vines sit on the slope in the heart of the terroir, and the family describes a south to south-east aspect. As a Récoltant-Manipulant, it makes its champagnes from its own grapes.

Location and vines

Bergères-sous-Montmirail is the westernmost champagne village in the Val du Petit Morin. The village's vineyards form a single block to the north-east of the village, near Boutavent, on gentle south-facing slopes. Based on the information available, the Champion estate farms about 5 hectares. The varieties grown are Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The soils consist of chalk, marl and limestone from the Lutetian, along with sands from the Cuisian. The estate works according to the principles of viticulture raisonnée. It holds the Haute Valeur Environnementale and Viticulture Durable en Champagne certifications. Malolactic fermentation is carried out for the white wine cuvées.

The cuvées

The range is compact and covers the classic styles:

• Tradition Brut
• Blanc de Blancs
• Cuvée Vieille Réserve
• Millésimé (vintage champagne)
• Rosé
• Demi-Sec

There is also a ratafia, which is listed on Vivino under the estate's name.

Visits and tastings

The family welcomes guests in a rural setting. According to the Comité Champagne, a visit to the press house and the cellars is part of the offer, and the range is presented there. Visits are possible by appointment only, best arranged by telephone (+33 3 26 42 69 86) or by email. If you arrive by motorhome, you will find a private pitch at the edge of the estate with electricity, water and Wi-Fi. The spot has all-round views over the Petit Morin valley and the village. It has room for two or three vehicles.