Seven Families: One Shared Vision for a Grande Marque Champagne

Champagne Palmer was established in 1947 by seven grower families passionate about quality and sharing a vision to create a Grande Marque. Based in Montagne de Reims, Champagne Palmer encompasses 500 acres of Premier and Grand Cru vineyards throughout 40 crus. Champagne Palmer’s elegance and richness are enhanced by consistent blending and longer maturing for both vintage and non-vintage cuvées, says Rémi Vervier, Champagne Palmer’s Oenologist and Managing Director, who sat down for a visit with us.

While Montagne de Reims is historically known as a Pinot Noir dominant growing region, Champagne Palmer places is acclaimed as a Chardonnay-focused house. These grapes are sourced on the eastern coast of the Montagne de Reims in the villages of Trépail and Villers-Marmery. Both areas are “little islands of excellent Chardonnay within a sea of Pinot Noir,” Vervier said.

What we tasted:

Champagne Palmer Brut Reserve– A cuvee with citrus, almond and buttery brioche deliver a satiating fullness on the palate thanks to the use of 30-35% reserve wines
50-55% Chardonnay, 35-40% Pinot Noir, 10-15% Pinot Meunier, 4 years on lees.

Champagne Palmer Rosé Solera – A fuller body champagne delivering flavors of black currants, vanilla and a touch of spice. 42% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, 10% Pinot Meunier, 8% Solera of Pinot Noir.  (with 30-35% reserve wines kept in stainless steel tanks as a perpetual reserve).

Champagne Palmer Blanc de Blancs – a flagship 100% Chardonnay cuvée delivering citrus white flower and almond notes and a delicate, satisfying finish.

Champagne Palmer Grands Terroirs 2015 – A blend Premier and Grand Cru vineyards (50% Chardonnay, 38% Pinot Noir, 12% Pinot Meunier) from an exceptional delivering succulent sweet citrus, orange blossom, dried fruit and brioche.

Listen to our conversation on the art of blending these prestige cuvées with Rémi Vervier. Here is the link below and here The Connected Table SIPS.