Duntze, Grands Terroirs Meunier Extra Brut
History
: The history of the Duntze family began in 1856 with Friedrich Duntze, who was born into a family of brewers in Bremen, Germany. Fascinated by the potential success of Champagne, he was among the many Germans who settled in the Champagne region during the 19th century to seek new opportunities. His remarkable passion and devotion to Champagne were later passed on to his son, Georges Frederic.
Born in Reims, in the heart of Champagne, Georges Frederic Duntze managed several Champagne houses before deciding in 1913 to produce authentic cuvées under his own name for his most important clients. This decision laid the foundation for what would become Champagne Duntze.
Due to a series of circumstances, the Champagne house was temporarily closed for a time. During this period, his son Robert and grandson Vincent became renowned wine brokers, playing a significant role in enabling the house to resume wine production in the future.
Victor Duntze, an oenologist and wine broker, later established the Champagne house under the name Champagne Duntze. Drawing upon the experience of his father, who had also worked as a broker, as well as his own expertise and strong network of growers, he was able to create the foundations for exceptional cuvées. In addition, at the request of his mother’s family — descendants of Champagne Montaudon — he gained valuable experience managing vineyards, which further contributed to his ability to produce top-quality cuvées.
“Great wine comes first and foremost from great terroir.”
Victor Duntze believes that wine begins with the soil, where all foundations are rooted. He explains that the vine and human craftsmanship then work together to create the emotions ultimately conveyed to those who taste the Champagne. According to him, all of these elements are interconnected like links in a chain, requiring both honesty and rigor.
He selects grapes according to strict standards, believing that the balance created by countless soil components interacting together, along with the diversity of flora, fauna, and microorganisms, contributes to the richness and complexity of the vines. To preserve both nature and the vineyards, he avoids intrusive methods that damage the soil. Instead, he chooses techniques that protect moisture, enhance vitality, strengthen resistance to disease, and reinforce the roots by covering the soil surface with natural materials.
These sustainable practices not only help protect the environment, but also promote healthier vines, ultimately playing a major role in improving both the quality and quantity of the wines produced.
About Wine
: For three generations, Champagne Duntze has been crafting Champagne while cultivating its vineyards through sustainable practices that respect and preserve the ecosystem. By combining the distinctive terroirs of different regions with grape varieties best suited to each site, the house produces Champagnes of exceptional quality.
This Champagne is made from grapes grown in the deep and complex soils of Vallée de la Marne, composed of clay, clay-rich silt, silica, fossils, sandstone, and limestone. These unique terroirs contribute to the wine’s remarkable richness of expression and silky texture.
The blend incorporates 15% reserve wines, while the dosage is set at 5.5g/L in an Extra-Brut style to preserve freshness and precision. Following disgorgement, the wine undergoes a minimum stabilization period of six months and is then aged for a total of 7 to 9 years, adding further depth, complexity, and refinement.
This Champagne has been recognized for its quality with a score of 92 points from James Suckling.
Tasting Note
- Pinot Meunier 100%
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Bright yellow in color with shimmering golden reflections, this Champagne reveals aromas of ripe red fruits, dried apricot, and pear, layered with an intense brioche character.
On the palate, flavors of yellow stone fruits, tropical fruits, candied citrus, toasted baguette, and sweet almonds unfold beautifully, while vibrant acidity brings freshness and balance. The result is a Champagne of remarkable harmony, richness, and charm.