New
75cl
Champagne Eric Rodez Grand Cru Cuvee des Crayeres Ambonnay Grand Cru Extra Brut
Vendor code : 1396
The Rodez family has cultivated grapes in Ambonnay for over 300 years. After a long tenure with Maison Krug, Eric Rodez now oversees the 6-hectare Grand Cru estate in Montagne de Reims, spanning the villages of Ambonnay, Bouzy, and Louvois. The 36 parcels are planted with 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay, with an average vine age of 30 years, though some parcels feature vines up to 70 years old. Commitment to vineyard health is central to Rodez’s philosophy, with the estate achieving organic certification in 2010.
Color
White
Fortress
12.5%
Country
France
Region
Champagne
Grape
Chardonnay; Pinot Noir
Producer
Champagne Eric Rodez
Champagne Éric Rodez Cuvée des Crayères Grand Cru Extra Brut embodies both body and spirit through the harmonious blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. Straightforward, rounded, and generous, the Cuvée des Crayères is crafted from an average of a dozen different wines spanning 4 to 5 vintages. Approximately 20–25% of the wines are vinified in small oak barrels, while 70% are reserve wines, contributing to its consistency and balance. A subtle creaminess on the nose suggests gentleness, while further aeration reveals a savory hint of soy, emphasizing the Pinot Noir dominance in the blend. On the palate, the champagne delivers smooth elegance, shaped by the richness of the reserve wines. The lively mousse transitions into a creamy texture, while a backbone of freshness enhances the natural poise of the Pinot Noir. Champagne Éric Rodez Cuvée des Crayères Grand Cru is a structured and elegant expression of its Grand Cru origins.
Eric and Martine Rodez represent the eighth generation of winemakers in their family, with their son Mickael continuing the legacy as the ninth. Their winemaking journey began in 1757 in Ambonnay, a Grand Cru renowned for its suitability for Pinot Noir. The area's favorable altitude (averaging 130m), south to southeast-facing slopes that reduce frost risk, and soils rich in chalk, limestone, and clay-limestone create ideal conditions for producing powerful yet refined Pinot Noir. While the Rodez family cultivates both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, they do not grow Pinot Meunier. In addition to his family heritage, Eric has gained valuable experience working in other Champagne houses, including a tenure as an oenologist at Krug. There, he honed skills in blending small parcels and multi-vintages, as well as using oak barrels—a philosophy that is evident in his Cuvée des Grands Vintages. Following a challenging 1984 harvest, Eric traveled extensively, gaining insights from various wine regions, including Alsace, where he studied organic vineyard practices. He brought this knowledge back to his 6-hectare domaine, believing it essential to highlight the unique qualities of Ambonnay and its Champagne. To further emphasize the wines' minerality and what he calls their "musicality," Eric transitioned to biodynamic viticulture eight years ago. This approach, though ambitious in a marginal climate like Champagne, reflects his commitment to innovation and quality. The Rodez family has also adopted aromatherapy essential oils to combat diseases like mildew, aligning with their eco-friendly philosophy. In recognition of these efforts, Eric received the Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) certification in 2012, which acknowledges excellence in organic farming, biodiversity, and water management. Beyond his roles as chief oenologist and vineyard manager, Eric also serves as the Mayor of Ambonnay, further demonstrating his deep dedication to the region and its community.
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