Champagne Dérot-Delugny

Champagne house in Crouttes-sur-Marne, Vallée de la Marne.

Village: Crouttes-sur-Marne
Region: Vallée de la Marne
Type of house: RM · Récoltant Manipulant
Cuvées in the guide: 11

Champagne‌ Dérot-Delugny is an independent winemaking business in Crouttes-sur-Marne (Aisne), located at the western gateway to the Vallée de la Marne. The house is known for its pragmatic approach and its strong focus on Pinot Meunier, complemented by rare varieties.

History

The brand name Dérot-Delugny was created in 1929 through the marriage of Philippe Dérot and Yvonne Delugny. They were the first winegrowers in Crouttes-sur-Marne to vinify their own champagne in their cellar, and won a gold medal in Paris as early as 1933. Production grew under subsequent generations, including Bernard Dérot, who for decades dug underground galleries by hand for natural ageing. Today the estate is run by the fourth generation, Laurent and Claire Dérot, who combine tradition with a modern, curious outlook.

Vineyards and Terroir

The estate manages roughly 13.5 hectares of vineyards on the clay-limestone slopes of the Marne Valley.

Grape varieties: Pinot Meunier is the anchor and is grown in the majority. In addition, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and the rare historic Pinot Gris Fromenteau are cultivated.
Certifications: Vineyard management meets the standards of Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) and Viticulture Durable en Champagne.
Terroir: The soil consists mainly of marl, which contributes to the freshness and elegance of the wines.

Method

The house's philosophy is called the "D-theory": a pragmatic approach in which the environment is observed and practices are adapted rather than clinging to rigid methods.

Vinification: Fermentation takes place exclusively in stainless steel tanks to preserve pure fruitiness and aromatic clarity.
Ageing: Time is used as an essential ageing tool; many champagnes rest for several years on the lees.
Harvest: The vineyards are harvested by hand.

Champagnes and Cuvées

The collection emphasises the expression of the grape varieties and the local terroir.

Premier du Genre: The "cœur de cuvée", a blend of 80% Pinot Meunier and 20% Chardonnay with 4 years of ageing.
Milieu Naturel: A Blanc de Noirs of 100% Pinot Meunier, known for its freshness.
Retour en Avant: A homage to heritage, made from the rare Pinot Gris Fromenteau.
Hors Pair: A Blanc de Blancs of 100% Chardonnay.

The estate also offers visits and tastings at 21 Grande Rue, 02310 Crouttes-sur-Marne.

Cuvées by Dérot-Delugny

Dérot-Delugny Binôme

Blend · 50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay

Blend of two complementary grapes with roundness and complexity.

Dérot-Delugny Bissextile

Rosé · 43% Chardonnay, 43% Meunier, 14% Pinot Noir

Rare rosé with an elegant, spicy personality.

Dérot-Delugny Brève Histoire de temps

Blend · 50% Chardonnay, 50% Meunier

Vintage cuvée with exotic, biscuity and nutty complexity.

Dérot-Delugny Brève Histoire de temps Millésime 2016

2016

Dérot-Delugny Hors Pair

Blanc de Blancs · 100% Chardonnay

Blanc de blancs with notes of linden, citrus and ginger.

Dérot-Delugny Hors Pair Blanc de Blancs

Blanc de Blancs

Dérot-Delugny Milieu Naturel

Blanc de Noirs · 100% Meunier

Blanc de noirs from Meunier with a pastry-like character.

Dérot-Delugny Milieu Naturel Blanc de Noirs

Blanc de Noirs

Dérot-Delugny Premier du Genre

Blend · 80% Meunier, 20% Chardonnay

Gourmand, versatile entry-level cuvée representing the house style.

Dérot-Delugny Retour En Avant

Blend · 100% Pinot Gris

Champagne from the old Pinot Gris variety with a fresh, spicy tone.

Dérot-Delugny Retour En Avant Blanc de Gris 2020

2020

Where it is sold

Shops and wholesalers carrying Dérot-Delugny: Champagne Terroir, Vente directe Vigneron Indépendant.

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