The winery
Champagne Thierry Fournier
Champagne house based in Festigny (Vallée de la Marne), run by fourth- and fifth-generation winegrowers; known for a strong focus on Pinot Meunier and for grower cuvées.
- Champagne · France
- 2 products
The story
A family-owned estate, now in its fourth and fifth generations, rooted in the village of Festigny in the Marne Valley. In recent years the team was refreshed by the arrival of Julien, and the estate modernized its winery with a new vinification facility installed in 2007–2008. The family continues to vinify and bottle its own grapes, maintaining tradition while pursuing development.
Production philosophy
Production focused on precision and respect for the terroir: predominance of Meunier in the blends, viticulture "raisonnée" with a long-term environmental plan, winemaking that favours extended ageing on the lees and careful attention to the balance and delicacy of the wines. They also experiment with winemaking techniques, such as the use of oak barrels for some trials.
Terroir and vineyards
Vineyards in the Vallée de la Marne, with parcels spread across 11 different communes. Variable soils and exposures allow blends with a broad aromatic spectrum. The winery is about a 1.5-hour drive from Paris and operates within the historic area of the Champagne slopes, part of the UNESCO site since 2015.
Characteristics
- Grape varieties
- Pinot Meunier
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
What makes it distinctive
- Based in Festigny, Vallée de la Marne
- Family-run in the 4th–5th generation.
- Strong focus on Pinot Meunier in the blends.
- Vineyards spread across 11 villages
- Prolonged ageing in the cellar and 'raisonnée' viticultural practices