Champagne Delaunois-Chanez
Champagne house in Rilly-la-Montagne, Montagne de Reims.
- Village
- Rilly-la-Montagne (Premier Cru)
- Region
- Montagne de Reims
- Type of house
- RM · Récoltant Manipulant
- Cuvées in the guide
- 7
Champagne Delaunois-Chanez is a family business based in Rilly-la-Montagne (Premier Cru, Montagne de Reims), founded in the 1920s by Edmond Delaunois and currently run by the fifth generation (Eric, Christine and Elodie).
History and Ownership
The estate is a récoltant manipulant (independent winegrower) and is certified for Haute Valeur Environnementale. Since the 1990s the family has modernised the business with new pressing equipment and barrels, while preserving the family tradition.
Vineyards and Terroir
The family owns 3.80 hectares of vineyards on the clay-limestone subsoil of Rilly-la-Montagne, a region known for its microclimate and flowery parks. They cultivate the three emblematic Champagne grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. The viticultural practices are respectful of the environment, with a focus on integrated farming, grazing of plots and the complete stopping of insecticides.
Approach
Each grape variety and each plot with old vines (more than 40 years) is vinified separately. The harvest takes place by hand, followed by a slow pressing of about three hours. The production process includes:
- Winter: Pruning and tying the vines.
- Spring: Removing buds to promote air circulation and disease prevention.
- Summer: Harvesting and training the shoots for optimal ripening.
- Autumn: Hand harvest and immediate pressing.
Champagnes
The range includes several cuvées, varying in price and style:
- Cuvée Sublime: Brut, for under €20.
- Cuvée du Fondateur: Brut, between €20 and €30.
- Cuvée Élodie: Extra Brut, between €30 and €40.
- Others: Including a Millésime 2019, Royale Rosé, Blanc de Blancs, and specialised products such as Ratafia and Vieux Marc de Champagne.
Visitors can visit the estate by appointment, with opening hours from Monday to Friday and at weekends by appointment.
Cuvées by Delaunois-Chanez
All producers in the interactive guide · All Champagne houses