Growers' Champagnes

What is Grower Champagne and Why Should I Care?

Champagne doesn't follow the same rules as every other fine wine-producing region. In most places, the quality end of the market is dominated by growers/producers, i.e. the guy that grows the grapes makes the wine. It should be this way when quality control of grapes is the overriding factor in making fine, or at least very good, wine. Champagne, however, has always been the other way around. This region is vastly dominated by the Champagne Houses, those producers that may or may not have famous names on the label and buy their grapes in the main from grape growers.

The latest figures from 2022 are grim and show the UK's reliance on branded Champagnes from Champagne houses.

The market share for growers is a mere 1.2% compared to 33% in France.

What do the French know that we don't?

The French rely much less on branded Champagnes from the Champagne Houses. They seem more confident in their palates, letting the wine do the talking. In the UK wine trade, we pride ourselves on finding and championing the best of what is available, but when it comes to Champagne, we need to catch up.

The big question is, 'Why should I care who grows the grapes?'

For me, the issue concerns the provenance and expression of the sense of place. The Champagne Houses buy grapes from all over the region, and the discussion around the 'house' style is focused on the blend of grape varieties. In comparison, the growers talk about the origin, the expression of where the grapes are grown and how this manifests in the wine. This singular expression, unique to each grower, is what excites us at Noble Grape and will surely pique your interest.

The growers are more daring in their methods. They often employ eccentric production techniques, pushing the boundaries of traditional Champagne making. Because the fruit quality is better, the wines generally tend to be on the drier side of Champagne, with less reliance on higher dosage levels. This adventurous spirit is what makes Grower Champagnes a thrilling discovery.

We urge you to step out of your comfort zone and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Growers Champagnes.