Champagne Tornay-Hutasse
Champagne house in Bouzy, Montagne de Reims.
- Village
- Bouzy (Grand Cru)
- Region
- Montagne de Reims
- Cuvées in the guide
- 13
Champagne Tornay-Hutasse is a family estate in Bouzy (Montagne de Reims) known for its 100% Grand Cru status and its emphasis on Pinot Noir. The house combines the heritage vineyards of the Tornay and Hutasse families, run by the fifth generation Nathalie Tornay-Hutasse and her husband Rudy Hutasse.
History and Family
The origins of the estate date from the early 19th century for the Tornay family. In 1997 Nathalie Tornay-Hutasse married Rudy Hutasse, as a result of which the vineyards of Fernand Hutasse (established since 1930) were merged with those of Bernard Tornay. Nathalie, the fifth generation of the Tornay family, has run the house since the death of her father in 2014. The legal entity is a SARL named Champagne Tornay, based on the Rue du Haut Petit Chemin in Bouzy.
Vineyards and Terroir
The estate manages a total of 21 hectares of vineyards, spread over the most prestigious Grand Cru and Premier Cru areas of the Champagne region. The core of the terroir lies in Bouzy, a Grand Cru in the Montagne de Reims that is known worldwide for its high-quality Pinot Noir. The soil is chalky, which contributes to the minerality and structure of the grapes. The harvest is carried out exclusively by hand to safeguard the quality of the fruit.
Working Methods and Philosophy
The house's philosophy rests on selecting grapes exclusively from Grand Cru and Premier Cru terroirs to guarantee authenticity and quality. The winemakers approach winegrowing as récoltants-manipulants (grape growers who make their own wine), combining traditional methods with modernity. Although not explicitly mentioned as biodynamically certified, rational viticulture is practised and emphasis is placed on respect for the land and tradition. The champagnes are often aged for a long time in the estate's cellars.
Champagnes and Cuvées
The range includes several cuvées that consist mainly of blends of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with Pinot Noir as the dominant grape in many blends (for example 60-70%). Some characteristic style features are:
- Grand Cru Brut: Often a blend of Pinot Noir (60-70%) and Chardonnay (30-40%), known for its fruity aromas of jam, apricot and caramel.
- Millésime (Vintage): Such as the 2008 Grand Cru, which after ageing in inox and oak barrels (9 months) develops a complex, lightly tinted colour and a powerful aroma.
- Blanc de Noirs: A champagne made from 100% Pinot Noir, with a robust character.
- Dosage: Some cuvées, such as specific vintage blends, are produced without dosage (brut nature) after at least 10 years of ageing.
Visitors can visit the estate for cave visits and tastings of four selected champagnes, aimed at experiencing the terroir and the craft.
Cuvées by Tornay-Hutasse
Where it is sold
Shops and wholesalers carrying Tornay-Hutasse: Puike Wijnen.
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