Champagne Gallimard Père et Fils: The Wine Range
Located in the village of Les Riceys, at the heart of the Côte des Bar region, Champagne Gallimard Père et Fils is a family-run Domaine that spans six generations. Didier and Arnaud Gallimard currently oversee the operations, maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture. Their approach emphasizes environmental respect and the authentic expression of the unique terroir of Les Riceys. The Domaine’s wine range highlights both traditional and innovative methods, producing Champagnes that reflect the character of their region.
Les Meurgers
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir (Blanc de Noirs)
Dosage: Extra Brut (4.5 g/L)
Blend: Includes 40% reserve wines
The name "Les Meurgers" refers to clusters of limestone found at the edges of the vines in the Côte des Bar. Historically, these stones were removed by the ancestors of the Gallimard family to facilitate vine planting. This cuvée exemplifies the terroir of Les Riceys and is crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir.
Quintessence Extra Brut
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)
Dosage: Extra Brut (5 g/L)
Vinification: Aged for five months in seasoned oak barrels
Ageing on Lees: Minimum of 36 months
Quintessence represents the blend of tradition and innovation central to the Gallimard philosophy. The Chardonnay, aged in oak barrels, gains depth and refinement, showcasing the potential of this varietal in the Les Riceys terroir.
Cuvée Amphoressence
Grape Variety: 50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay
Dosage: Zero Dosage (Brut Nature)
Vinification: Aged in handcrafted terracotta ovoid amphorae from Tuscany for five months
Ageing on Lees: Minimum of 48 months
This limited-edition cuvée (2,500 bottles) is a testament to experimentation. The use of amphorae provides a unique micro-oxygenation environment, allowing the wines to develop distinct complexity and balance.
Rosé des Riceys
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Ageing: Three years in the cellar
Volume: Limited production of 2,500 bottles
Vintage: 2017
The Rosé des Riceys is one of France’s most distinctive rosé wines, crafted through a short maceration process of Pinot Noir. Timing is critical during vinification, as capturing the "taste of Les Riceys" at the right moment is essential.
Cuvée de Réserve
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir (Blanc de Noirs)
Blend: Includes 20% reserve wines and 10% solera wines from six vintages
Dosage: Brut (also available in demi-sec)
Bottle Sizes: Half-bottle (37.5cl), Bottle (75cl), Magnum (1.5L), Jeroboam (3L)
This multi-vintage Blanc de Noirs exemplifies the rich, balanced nature of Les Riceys’ Pinot Noir. The addition of solera wines adds complexity and depth to the final blend, making it suitable for various occasions.
Grande Réserve Chardonnay
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)
Dosage: Brut
Harvest: Single vintage
This Champagne demonstrates the finesse and concentration of Chardonnay from Les Riceys. Its fine bubbles and persistent cordon highlight the high-quality craftsmanship of the Gallimard family.
Prestige Vintage 2017
Grape Variety: 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay
Vinification: 50% of the Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels
Dosage: Extra Brut
Ageing: Between four and five years in the cellar
Harvest: 2016
This vintage combines the finesse and purity of Chardonnay with the roundness and structure of Pinot Noir. Made exclusively from grapes grown in Les Riceys, the Prestige Vintage exemplifies the balance and complexity achieved through careful ageing and meticulous winemaking.
Conclusion
Champagne Gallimard Père et Fils stands out for its dedication to sustainable practices and the authentic representation of the Les Riceys terroir. Each cuvée in their portfolio offers a distinct perspective on the region’s potential, blending historical expertise with modern techniques. This balance of tradition and innovation ensures the continued legacy of the Gallimard family in producing exceptional Champagnes.