Champagne Duval-Leroy - Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Quite approachable as a blanc de blanc, with citrus notes and the crisp, clean character of this Chardonnay—more briny than mineral—an airy finish, long persistence, good body, and flavorful. It’s refined.

Under the energetic and passionate leadership of Carol Duval, now supported by her sons, this house—established in 1859 in Vertus, on the Côte des Blancs—has continually raised its standards. The estate’s own vineyards are extensive, covering 200 hectares, with a significant proportion consisting of grands crus from the Côte des Blancs. This accounts for one-third of the house’s needs, as it produces 5 million bottles annually. The cellar master is also a woman, Sandrine Logette-Jardin.

This cuvée, drawn in 2008 after 11 years on its lees, is made exclusively from grand crus from the six villages of the Côte des Blancs. The nose, beautifully developed with notes of dried fruit and toasted almonds, retains a distinct freshness. On the palate, the wine’s suppleness and body have been enhanced by aging. What remains is its crystalline, vibrant character, which resonates beautifully and calls for creamy preparations of fine fish.

Located south of the Côte des Blancs, this family-run estate has thrived under the strong and energetic leadership of Carol Duval-Leroy, supported by her sons Julien and Charles. It’s a recent success story embodied by a dynamic widow—just the kind Champagne loves. This Belgian woman, who is passionate about hunting, has transformed Duval into a modern, accessible brand that is now a partner to sommeliers. The cellar’s floor space (for barrel vinification and storage) has doubled since 2009. Sandrine Logette, one of the few female cellar masters, has been overseeing winemaking since 2007. She carries on the spirit of innovation in an eclectic range dominated by Chardonnay, featuring sparkling wines characterized by a creamy texture and fine bubbles.