Duménil

History

We are going to tell you the story of an atypical family of winemakers. But first, here we are in the Middle Ages when the monks were the only winemakers in France. The Duménil terroir was already making a name for itself in those distant times. The monks were the first to take advantage of it by cultivating the vine, which seemed to adapt perfectly to the type of soil found in the Montagne de Reims.

It is in particular the Abbey of Saint-Rémi which was the owner of the vineyards of Chigny Les Roses, Rilly la Montagne and Ludes. These terroirs, now classified as Premier Cru, are the cradles of the Duménil house. Improving the methods used in viticulture, the clergy was the first group of winemakers to conduct experiments (soil quality, grape varieties,...).

The Champagne region was then developing, and its fame was soaring. The Duménil family was already present, we find writings and communal archives concerning them, dated from the 10th century. We can easily say that this family, present for hundreds of years, has definitely the green thumb!

It is difficult to obtain all the information on this period but what is sure is that many centuries later (XIXth), the Duménil house is officially created. In 1874, to be more precise, the birth of the house is accompanied by an expertise that few people had in that period: that of the vine and champagne!

Over the decades, generations will follow one another and develop an awareness of quality. Moreover, it will be for them to meet the needs of their consumers, a notion that is very important for the Duménil house...

An overflowing passion

A notion that fits perfectly with the company's raison d'être but also the desire of its managers. Frédérique and Hugues Poret-Duménil are great enthusiasts of the vine and wine.

It is with all the knowledge of the previous generations that they take care of this 8 hectare vineyard, classified 100% in Premier Cru. Located in the center of the Montagne de Reims, they cultivate pinot noir (majority), pinot meunier and chardonnay. For a few years, the viticulture has been rethought to stick to the ideology of our craftsmen-winemakers. Indeed, it respects the values of the HVE (High Environmental Value) label. The protection of the soil is a strong commitment for Champagne Duménil, which favors manual work (as often as possible). It is not uncommon to see a horse ploughing on some parcels, especially the oldest ones...

Each year, it is with rigor that the blends are made, to then let the bottles rest for 3 years minimum in the cellar. While respecting their terroir, they elaborate together fruity, tender and well balanced champagnes. The range, very diversified, will seduce you for sure!