Team C&J
Montaudon Champagne has been at the forefront of producing luxury champagnes since its founding over 130 years ago. But the story behind this iconic brand goes beyond prestige and festive bubbles. Dive into the rich history of Montaudon, from its humble beginnings as a family-owned venture to its current status as a celebrated producer, and discover the dedication to quality and innovation that lies at the heart of every bottle.
In this post, we will explore the different expressions offered by Montaudon, and review their ever popular Brut Tradition.
The story of Montaudon Champagne began in 1891 when Auguste-Louis Montaudon, a man with a profound passion for the sparkling wine of the Champagne region, decided to establish his own house in Reims, France. With a vision to create champagne that captures the essence of luxury and celebration, Auguste-Louis laid the groundwork for what would become a long-standing tradition of excellence in champagne production.
Over the years, the Montaudon family continued to build upon this legacy, and the company was handed down from father to son for four generations. It was second-generation vintner Auguste-Eugène who, in the 1920s, grew the company into what is now considered a “prestige” champagne brand. The decadence of the Roaring Twenties likely helped this rise to fame among champagne lovers.
Montaudon Champagne was a multigenerational, family-owned champagne house until 2008, when luxury conglomerate LVMH acquired the brand. Interestingly, LVMH only held onto Montaudon for about two years. In 2010, the brand was once again sold. Alliance Champagne Group now owns Montaudon Champagne.
Montaudon Champagne has a type of champagne for every occasion, but their most popular offering is the Brut Tradition, which we review in this post. This sparkling wine, with the very recognizable red ‘M’ on the label, is known for its balanced blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay grapes, which, according to sippers around the world, creates a perfect harmony of fruitiness and structure.
Champagne Montaudon also crafts:
At the heart of Montaudon Champagne’s success is a dedication to exemplary winemaking practices that blend tradition with innovation. From the meticulous selection of grapes to the intricacies of the blending process, every step is taken with the ultimate goal of achieving excellence. Montaudon insists on using only grapes from vineyards that meet their high standards, ensuring that each bottle reflects the rich terroir of the Champagne region.
Secondary fermentation, a critical step in producing the sparkling wine, is carefully managed to achieve the brand’s signature effervescence. This process, known as the méthode champenoise, involves inducing a secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in the carbonation that is characteristic of champagne. Montaudon’s cellars, where the bottles are stored during this process, provide the ideal conditions for aging, allowing the champagne to develop its full complexity and depth of flavor.
Innovation also plays a crucial role in Montaudon’s winemaking practices. The brand has embraced modern techniques and technologies where that complement traditional methods, always with the aim of enhancing quality and sustainability. From sustainable viticulture practices to advancements in cellar management, Montaudon is committed to producing champagne that is both exceptional in taste and respectful of the environment.
This Brut Tradition Montaudon Champagne boasts a clear, pale lemon color and medium viscosity. The nose is inviting and offers a delightful blend of brioche, lemon, pear, melon, and peach. The palate mirrors the aromas, showcasing refreshing lemon and brioche followed by juicy melon and nectarine flavors. This medium-bodied brut champagne is balanced by medium-plus acidity, creating a lively and smooth mouthfeel with a long finish of lingering fruit and a touch of brioche.
The Brut Tradition Montaudon Champagne is a well-rounded and versatile Champagne that is perfect for enjoying on its own or paired with a variety of dishes or desserts. We really enjoyed popping this bottle open, and we think you will, too.
What temperature should champagne be served at?
Champagnes like this Brut Tradition by Montaudon Champagne should be served between 46°F and 50°F (8°C – 10°C). Serving champagne at the correct temperature allows the wine’s delicate aromas and flavors to come forth without being numbed by excessive coldness while still maintaining the refreshing effervescence we associate with champagne.
How long does opened champagne last?
In the rare event that you have a partially enjoyed bottle of champagne that you didn’t finish, rest assured that champagne can be stored in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Just remember to seal the bottle with a stopper when you are in the refrigerator. It’s also worth mentioning that for every day the bottle is open, the bubbles will diminish.
France
Champagne
Chapagne
12
Undetermined
47–50°F / 7–10°C
Chardonnay
N/A
Now to 2034
Montaudon
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