Paul Dethune

Paul Déthune is a family estate in Ambonnay. The house and vineyards have been in this village since 1610, one of only 17 grand cru villages in Champagne. It lies on the edge of the Montagne de Reims. The family history can be dated in different ways. The line of vignerons goes back to 1610, and the estate was founded as a property in 1840. The family has been making its own champagne since the 1930s.

Family and generations

Pierre Déthune follows his great-grandfather Léon, his grandfather Henri and his father Paul. Pierre and Sophie Déthune have run the estate since 1995. His father's name has stayed on the label.

Vineyards and working methods

The house's champagnes come from seven hectares. The vines stand exclusively in Ambonnay and are 70 per cent Pinot Noir and 30 per cent Chardonnay. The estate relies on organic soil improvers and avoids pesticides and insecticides. It has been certified organic since 2023. It also holds the HVE certification for sustainable viticulture.

Vinification takes place in traditional champagne barrels and large oak foudres, with ageing in chalk cellars. The Brut Grand Cru contains 30 to 50 per cent reserve wines from more than 40 vintages.

The cuvées

• Brut Grand Cru: the house's core wine, made from 70 per cent Pinot Noir and 30 per cent Chardonnay.
• Blanc de Noirs: 100 per cent Pinot Noir from Ambonnay.
• Blanc de Blancs, Rosé and Extra Brut: round out the range.
• Princesse des Thunes: the house's prestige cuvée.
• Cuvée à l'Ancienne: made entirely by hand.

In total the range comprises ten champagnes, all 100 per cent grand cru.

Visiting and tasting

The estate is at 2 rue du Moulin in Ambonnay. Visitors praise the tastings, which Sophie Déthune hosts in person. Particular praise goes to the prestige cuvée Princesse des Thunes and the Ratafia Champenois. It is best to send any enquiries in advance to info@champagne-dethune.com.