More than a sophisticated bubble
In the beautiful hills of the Champagne region, where the air is steeped in history and elegance, one of the region's best-kept secrets is kept: Lallier Champagne. Among the many renowned champagne houses that all produce delicious bubbles, Lallier Champagne is known for its refined character, commitment to quality and traditional craftsmanship. Not for nothing is this Domaine listed in the Top 30 'World's Most Admired Champagne Brands 2023'.
Where it all began
Lallier's history began more than a century ago in 1906, in the picturesque village of Aÿ. Right in the heart of the region, the winery was founded by René Lallier. A visionary winemaker who was determined to produce champagne of the highest quality. Since then, the winery has been handed down from generation to generation, with each family member contributing his passion and expertise to perfect the craft.
The unique production process
Between the Marne River and the southern slopes of the 'Montagne de Reims', Domaine Lallier's vineyards stretch over just over 15 hectares of vines. The majority are Grand Cru vineyards. Mainly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grow here, known for their refined character and complex flavours.
The grapes are nurtured using sustainable winemaking methods steeped in tradition and respect for the terroir. The winemakers therefore work according to the principles of lutte raisonnée (or, controlled cultivation). They respect natural cycles and minimise the use of chemicals to preserve the health of the vineyards and the surrounding ecosystem.
"Great terroirs only exist through the people who word them."
- Cyrille Diniz, Lallier technical director
Everything is done by hand, from start to finish, with great attention to detail. From picking the grapes to pressing, fermenting, bottling and ageing. The whole process oozes craft and authenticity. This artisanal craftsmanship reflects their commitment to preserving the traditional methods that capture the essence of true champagne.
After careful harvesting, the grapes undergo gentle pressing to bring out the best of the fruit. The must undergoes an initial alcoholic fermentation to obtain the base wine. What follows is the crucial process of blending. This involves experienced winemakers blending different base wines to achieve Lallier's style and consistency.
The wine is then blended and bottled with a small amount of yeast and sugar. This process is known as "tirage", and initiates the second fermentation in bottle. Instead of the usual standard process of three years, Lallier lets their champagnes age for much longer on their yeast sediment, sometimes up to seven years. This extended ageing process allows the champagne to develop further until it reaches its full potential.
The result? Champagne with deep complexity and wonderful balance
Lallier Champagne stands out for its refinement, elegance and excellent balance. The different cuvées offer a wide range of flavour profiles. From fresh and lively to complex and creamy, so there is something for every champagne lover to discover.
" With Lallier's founding father philosophy firmly at the heart of our work, we enhance what nature brings each year. Grapes are blended not for linear consistency but to express the unique personality of a given harvest, offering each year subtle variations of character."
The Réflexion R.019 Brut
The house's most recent cuvée is the "R.019," named after the 2019 harvest. This champagne embodies the essence of Lallier, with its rich aromas of fresh citrus and white flowers. In the background, subtle scents of toasted almonds, brioche and subtle hints of minerality. The Lallier R.019 is lively and refreshing, with fresh acidity that balances the fruit flavours of lemon, grapefruit and peach. The mouthfeel is creamy and full-bodied, with a long and elegant finish that reveals notes of honey and hazelnuts.
" The R.019 expresses the heart of Lallier signature style.
The perfect balance of Freshness, Purity, Depth and Intensity."
Lallier Champagne.
A champagne to cherish, share with loved ones and enjoy.
