PAUL DÉTHUNE

The Déthunes started as growers in the early 1800s and began to make their own Champagne in the 1930s. The vineyards are planted in the ratio of 70% Pinot Noir to 30% Chardonnay and are farmed on organic principles – and hold the highest level HEV (High Environmental Value) certificate for sustainable viticulture. This immaculate 7-hectare domaine goes from strength to strength. Pierre and Sophie Déthune, along with their daughter Emma (who is training under the expert supervision of Pierre) are friends of the Fournys. This Ambonnay domaine is amongst the loveliest and best cared for in the whole of Champagne.

The Champagnes are vinified in a mix of stainless steel cuves, foudres and 205 litre barrels, the oak all being sourced from local forests. Their wines are deep, rich and full, but with lovely freshness and elegance. They also put the date of disgorging on the back of each bottle, which is never less than three years prior to release, which again underlines their attention to detail. These are all very fine mouthfilling wines and as the late Michael Edwards said, “Pierre Déthune intelligently adopts tradition to craft wines of exuberance and vinosity.”

Some of the standout Cuvées from this amazing range are Cuvée Prestige Princesse des Thunes; a blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay with 30% of reserve wines, vinified and aged in large Champagne oak barrels. An excellent pairing with lobster and rich fish dishes. Also the “Les Crayères” from a single plot of one and a half hectares, 100% Grand Cru Ambonnay Pinot Noir (some of the finest fruit in Champagne) and aged in 205 Litre oak barrels. Only 4,000 bottles produced. Quite exceptional. A special mention must also go to the Cuvée à l’Ancienne, sealed with a cork and metal staple, aged and vinified in oak and aged for a minimum of six years in the cellar. Only 2,000 bottles produced. A stunning wine.

www.champagne-dethune.fr