Salon Champagne

Salon Champagne: An iconic name in the world of champagne

History und Gründung

Salon Champagne, ein Name, der in der Welt des Champagners höchstes Ansehen genießt, wurde im Jahr 1921 in der renommierten Gemeinde Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in der Champagne, Frankreich, gegründet. Der Visionär hinter dieser prestigeträchtigen Marke war Eugène-Aimé Salon, ein wohlhabender Geschäftsmann, der sein Vermögen im Fellhandel gemacht hatte. Salon war jedoch mehr als nur ein erfolgreicher Geschäftsmann; er war auch ein leidenschaftlicher Weinkenner und -liebhaber. Getrieben von dem Wunsch, den besten Champagner der Welt zu kreieren, erwarb er 1911 einen Hektar der besten Crus des Weinbaugebiets Champagne. Dieser Grundstein war der Beginn einer beispiellosen Erfolgsgeschichte.

The philosophy of the house

Eugène-Aimé Salon's vision was to create a unique champagne exclusively for his own enjoyment and that of his guests. The basis of this vision was the outstanding terroir of "Le Mesnil" on the "Côte des Blancs", an area known for its exceptional Chardonnay grapes. Salon firmly believed that Chardonnay was the best grape variety for the production of Champagne. This philosophy led to the creation of the world's first Blanc de Blancs champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes.

Commercialisation and expansion

Nachdem Salon zunächst ausschließlich für den Eigenbedarf produziert hatte, entschied er sich im Jahr 1921, seinen exklusiven Jahrgangschampagner zu kommerzialisieren. Dies markierte den Beginn einer neuen Ära für Salon Champagner. Im 20. Jahrhundert wurden insgesamt 37 Vintages produziert, jeder davon ein Zeugnis der außergewöhnlichen Qualität und Handwerkskunst, die das Haus auszeichnen.

Production and vineyards

Salon exclusively produces Blanc de Blancs Champagne wines, and only in selected years when the quality of the grapes meets the strict requirements of the house. The company's own vineyards in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger only contribute around one sixth of the required grape production. The rest of the grapes are purchased on the highly regulated market for Champagne base wine, with Salon only buying the best grapes from selected vineyards.

A central aspect of Salon's philosophy is quality-orientated cellar management. The legally prescribed minimum storage period of three years for vintage champagnes is significantly exceeded at Salon. As a rule, the champagnes are only sold after at least ten years of ageing. This long ageing period gives the wines their unique complexity and depth and requires considerable storage capacity and a high capital commitment.

The most famous champagne: Salon Cuvée 'S'

The house's most famous champagne is the Cuvée 'S', a Blanc de Blancs that is only produced in exceptional years. Each vintage of this champagne is a tribute to the terroir of Le Mesnil and the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. Cuvée 'S' is characterised by its exceptional freshness, elegance and complexity, qualities that make it one of the most sought-after champagnes in the world.

Presence and affiliation to the Laurent-Perrier Group

Since 1988, Champagne Salon has been part of the prestigious Laurent-Perrier family group. This affiliation has enabled Salon to benefit from the group's extensive resources and expertise while maintaining its own identity and tradition. The association with Laurent-Perrier has helped Salon to further expand its presence on the international market and consolidate its position as one of the world's leading champagne houses.

Current information on vineyards and headquarters

Today, Salon's vineyards cover around 1 hectare in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, and the house continues to purchase grapes from carefully selected partner vineyards to ensure the high quality of its champagnes. The headquarters of Salon are still located in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, where the tradition and heritage of the house are honoured.

Summary and outlook

Salon Champagne remains a beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of Champagne. With a rich history, an unwavering commitment to quality and a clear vision for the future, Salon has cemented its place at the forefront of Champagne houses. Every bottle of Salon Champagne is not just a drink, but an experience that reflects the passion, expertise and dedication of a man who has changed the world of Champagne forever.

This extensive history and Salon's ongoing endeavour to produce only the finest Blanc de Blancs Champagnes illustrates the House's unique position in the world of Champagne. The association with the Laurent-Perrier Group has given Salon additional stability and reach without compromising the founding principles and identity established by Eugène-Aimé Salon over a century ago.