Maison Philipponnat traces its roots back to the 16th century, when Apvril Philipponnat was awarded land in Aÿ for fighting in François I’s army at the Battle of Marignan. From that point on, the House developed, and its Champagnes found their way to the tables of princes and even King Louis XIV. Maison Philipponnat as such was founded in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in 1910, in the former 18th-century cellars of the Château de Mareuil. In 1935, the family acquired Clos des Goisses, a renowned parcel which now produces one of the house's most-well known cuvées.
Today, the vines spread over 20 hectares in Aÿ, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Mutigny, and the House sources additional grapes from selected demanding winegrowers. The House joined the Boizel Chanoine Champagne group in 1997, but the Philipponnat family is still very much present, alongside Charles Philipponnat and today his son François.
In the vineyard, viticultural methods are as natural and respectful of the terroir as possible (no insecticides, grass left between vines). The estate has worked hard to get certificates confirming their commitment to sustainable viticulture. And in the winery, one of the unique techniques used is to preserve reserve wines in solera in oak casks. A medium-sized house producing top end, truly recommended Champagnes.

Philipponnat, a historic Champagne house blessed with a superb terroir, has won the highest ratings from Mondovino’s top critics. This Blanc de Noirs is produced from Pinot Noir grown in the eponymous Le Léon parcel located between Aÿ and Dizy. Tradition is the order of the day in the winery. Fermentation is conducted in wood and the extra-brut dosage allows the wine to express its great freshness. The wine is then matured in wood for seven years, a prolonged period of ageing which allows it to develop intensity, depth and, of course, aromatic complexity. The wine’s yellow colour is tinged with golden reflections, revealing a variety of notes of black fruit and sweet spices such as cinnamon and star anise. The numerous delicate bubbles offer a delightful creamy impression. The minerality typical of Champagne’s chalky terroir lingers for a long time. This wine is certain to find pride of place at the table.