Henri Maillart

Chamery lies on the slopes of the north-western Montagne de Reims, known as the Petite Montagne de Reims. The Maillart family has had its roots in this village since 1753. The house of Henri Maillart et Fils is based at 20 Rue de l'Église and sees itself as a typical champagne house with a family character. Benjamin Maillart is considered the sixth generation of growers in the family.

Family and vineyards

Benjamin's parents laid the foundations of today's estate. After his father's death in 2002, he first ran the house together with his mother. She has since retired, and he now carries the responsibility alone. The house's vines cover just under 6 hectares, split in roughly equal parts between Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. The soils consist of varying proportions of limestone, chalk and clay-limestone. The bottles carry the Premier Cru designation.

Methods and cuvées

Maillart is a récoltant-manipulant, which means the house makes its champagnes from its own grapes. Viticulture is raisonnée and the harvest is by hand. The wines are made by the traditional method, with ageing on laths, in bottle and in tank. The vineyards yield around 40,000 bottles a year. The main markets are France and Belgium.

• Brut Traditionnel: 30% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier and 40% Chardonnay. The champagne is regarded as balanced and consistent.
• Brut Sélection: two thirds Chardonnay, one third Pinot Noir, marked by finesse and elegance.
• Brut Rosé: it contains a small amount of red wine from Champagne.
• Brut Vintage: it comes from a single harvest year and blends Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
• Demi-Sec: it is blended much like the Brut Traditionnel, but sweeter, and intended for desserts.

Vivino also lists a Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Premier Cru.

Visiting

The house welcomes visitors for tours and tastings. Directories give the telephone number as 03 26 97 63 27 (+33 3 26 97 63 27 from the UK or US). If you are travelling, it is best to arrange your visit in advance.