Champagne Duval-Leroy - Femme de Champagne Grand Cru Brut 2000

This cuvée is subtle and elegant. The bubbles are fine, the finish is smooth and deep, with a nicely lively aftertaste.

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.

The prestigious 2000 Femme de Champagne cuvée (€50–75) also showcases Chardonnay (95%). The 1996 vintage was named “ Favorite ”; this vintage earns a star for its aromas of honey and candied citrus, as well as for its clean, pleasant, and lingering palate.

The years go by, yet this cuvée retains its freshness. An elegant style with aromas of vanilla, mushrooms, and medlar jelly, and citrus flavors on the palate that, combined with the finesse of the bubbles, offer a beautiful balance. A distinguished champagne that is reaching its peak.

The 2000 Femme de Champagne is another noble, prestigious cuvée from Duval-Leroy, and, honestly, it is even more beautiful, purer, and more delicate than the 1996. Its purity and perfect balance, elegance, and finesse are as evident on the nose (with notes of apple, brioche, white chocolate, hazelnut, and floral aromas) as they are on the palate, where this medium- to full-bodied wine leads to a firm, mineral, and complex finish with great length.

The 2000 Femme de Champagne Grand Cuvée offers a sophisticated and vibrant profile.

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.