Dhondt-Grellet Extra-Brut Les Nogers 2012
Dhondt-Grellet Extra-Brut Les Nogers 2013
Dhondt-Grellet Extra-Brut Les Nogers 2014
A Family Legacy Dedicated to Terroir
Founded in 1986, Champagne Dhondt-Grellet is a family-run estate that has gained a strong reputation for producing expressive and terroir-driven champagnes. Initially led by Éric Dhondt and Édith Grellet, their son Adrien took over winemaking in 2012 at the age of 22, bringing a fresh perspective while staying true to family traditions. Now, alongside his sister Alice, he continues to refine the estate's approach, emphasizing purity, precision, and sustainability.
An Exceptional Terroir in the Côte des Blancs
The estate spans approximately 6 hectares, primarily in the prestigious Côte des Blancs, with vineyards in Cramant (Grand Cru) and Cuis (Premier Cru). The flagship vineyard, "Le Bateau," was planted in 1951 by Adrien’s great-grandfather and is known for yielding Chardonnay of outstanding quality. The chalky soils and south-facing exposure provide ideal growing conditions, ensuring wines with vibrant acidity, remarkable minerality, and layered complexity.
A Commitment to Sustainable and Biodynamic Practices
Adrien has implemented sustainable and biodynamic farming practices, favoring a natural approach without seeking certification. Herbicides and synthetic treatments are completely avoided, and soil health is maintained through composting and minimal intervention. Since 2021, the vineyards have been plowed with a horse named Thor, reinforcing the estate’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and soil vitality.
Traditional Yet Innovative Winemaking
In the cellar, Adrien employs a winemaking philosophy inspired by top Burgundy domaines. Fermentation takes place mainly in oak barrels using indigenous yeasts, following a short six-hour settling process and minimal sulfur addition. The wines spend around eight months aging on lees before bottling, without cold stabilization, filtration, or fining. This hands-off approach enhances texture, depth, and terroir expression, resulting in champagnes with an unmistakable sense of place.
Signature Cuvées That Define Dhondt-Grellet
Each cuvée at Champagne Dhondt-Grellet reflects a unique aspect of the estate’s terroir:
- Dans un Premier Temps Extra Brut: A balanced blend of 50% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, and 20% Meunier, crafted from a mix of recent vintages and a perpetual reserve dating back to 1986. Fresh and elegant, this cuvée embodies the house style.
- Les Terres Fines Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut: Made from 100% Chardonnay sourced from Cuis, this cuvée showcases finesse and minerality with a delicate citrus profile.
- Le Bateau Cramant Grand Cru: Sourced from the estate’s most prized vineyard, this 100% Chardonnay champagne is entirely vinified in oak, revealing incredible depth, structure, and aging potential.
An Invitation to Experience Champagne Dhondt-Grellet
Champagne Dhondt-Grellet welcomes visitors eager to explore its commitment to craftsmanship and terroir. Tastings and vineyard tours offer a unique opportunity to discover the estate’s philosophy firsthand, providing an intimate glimpse into the artistry behind these world-class champagnes. Whether savoring a crisp Blanc de Blancs or an age-worthy Grand Cru, every bottle tells the story of a family dedicated to excellence.
