What are parcel-based Champagnes?

Single parcel Champagnes are Champagnes made exclusively from grapes grown on a single parcel.

WHAT ARE PARCELS IN CHAMPAGNE

In Champagne, the term "parcelle" refers to small plots of land or vineyards.

Parcels are important for Champagne production for several reasons:

• Unique terroir: Each parcel has a specific terroir, which includes soil type, sun exposure, slope of the land, altitude, and other environmental factors. These aspects contribute to the unique profile of the grapes produced there.
• Individual management: The plots are managed and harvested separately, allowing the Vignerons to optimise cultivation and harvesting techniques according to the specific needs of each plot.
• History and tradition: This farming structure is deeply rooted in the history and tradition of the region, influencing the way Champagne has been produced and developed over the centuries.
• Basis for Parcel Champagne: Some Vignerons use grapes harvested from individual parcels to produce Parcel Champagnes, which are wines that express the unique character of that specific parcel.

Parcels are fundamental to Champagne production as they allow Vignerons to exploit the diversity and richness of the terroir champenois, creating wines that uniquely reflect the characteristics of each parcel.

SIZE OF A PARCEL IN CHAMPAGNE

The size of a parcel in Champagne varies, but tends to be quite small, especially when compared to the size of vineyards in other wine regions. This is partly due to the history and agricultural structure of Champagne, as well as hereditary division practices.

The main characteristics are:

• Small size: Plots in Champagne measure only a few hectares, and the average size is 12 ares.
• Fragmentation: Due to the long history of hereditary divisions and sales, land in Champagne is highly fragmented. This means that a single producer may own many small plots scattered in different areas of the region.

SINGLE PARCEL CHAMPAGNES

Parcellary Champagnes represent a special category of Champagne. They are made using only grapes from a single parcel (or vineyard) rather than an assemblage of several parcels. Here are some key points about parcellary Champagnes. Parcel Champagnes represent a special category of Champagne. They are made using only grapes from a single parcel (or vineyard) rather than a blend of several parcels.

Here are some key points about single parcel Champagnes:

• Essence of terroir: Each parcel has unique soil, climate and microclimate characteristics, which influence the taste and aroma of the grapes. Parcel Champagne faithfully reflects the specific terroir of that parcel, offering an exceptional tasting experience.
• High craftsmanship: Great care is taken to ensure that the wine reflects the unique qualities of the vineyard. Careful management of the individual parcel, the quality of its grapes and their vinification is therefore carried out. Great craftsmanship that is reflected in the exceptional nature of the final product.
• Facets: Parcel Champagnes offer us a great variety of styles and characteristics, allowing us to explore the many facets within Champagne.
• History and connection: Knowing the precise origin of the grapes adds an element of connection and history, giving us a deeper understanding of the provenance of the specific Cuvée.
• Identification: Parcel Champagnes are often identified on the label with the name of the parcel they come from, giving us the opportunity to appreciate and compare the different expressions of terroir.
• Cost: Their unique nature and the great craftsmanship required make Parcellar Champagnes exceptional wines that can consequently have a cost.
• Tradition and innovation: Some Vignerons have a long history of producing parcellari Champagnes, others are experimenting with this practice as an innovative way to explore and exploit the different facets of their terroir.
• Sensory experience: Tasting a parcellar Champagne gives us a more intense and focused sensory experience, allowing us to appreciate all the nuances that a single terroir can express.

For all these reasons, single parcel Champagne is a true sensory exploration: an exclusive journey through the richness and uniqueness of the terroir champenois, giving us an exceptional and unforgettable tasting experience.

If this journey has inspired your passion for the world of Champagne, I invite you to discover our selection.

Each Cuvée is the fruit of a passionate quest for perfection, where the aromas play their part to perfection, combining tradition and innovation.

Wait no longer and allow yourself to be tempted by the most beautiful experience: taste, savour and let each bubble tell you a story.

Click here to discover and purchase our Champagnes.

Cheers et à votre santé!