- The Winery
- Address: 257 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10026
- Telephone: 212-222-4866
- Opening hours: Open 7 days, 12-9 PM.
Grapes: 70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir (all 1er Cru vineyards).
Region: France> Champagne> Montagne de Reims.
Notes: No Malolactic fermentation, aged 3 to 4 years before release, organic.
Description: Vilmart et Cie was founded in 1890 by Desire Vilmart, and is one of the rare estates in the region that can claim to have been a recoltant-manipulant (growers champagne) from their beginnings. Laurent Champs has been in charge of the estate since 1989, being the fifth generation of the family to operate the house. Vilmart, along with (Rene) Geoffrey, a member of Ampelos, an organization that surveys and promotes organic and sustainable viticulture. Laurent Champs has used no herbicides or chemical fertilizers since taking over the 11 hectare estate and maintains plowing and cover crops in all vineyards. During harvest, each cluster is carefully hand picked so that only the best fruit is selected. Vinification of all cuvées takes place in wood, which gives the wines their particular character, providing body, fruit, roundness and subtlety. Aromas of lemony robe, with nuances of light toast and shortbread. The effervescence is calm and persistent, composed of fine bubbles. On the palate the Champagne shows power and precision with bright acidity, lemon zest, and soft minerality throughout the length of the palate.
Food pairings: Aperitif, fish (white fish), cream sauces, crustaceans, etc.