The Wine

Champagne Brut Origine NV

As a Récoltant Manipulant (RM), Champagne Fresne Ducret produce and sell champagne only from the grapes they grow – this is an important distinction in Champagne.  They do not buy in grapes from other growers and so are able to control completely the quality of what goes into their bottles.

As such the champagnes of Fresne Ducret are true vins de terroir with a character and style that reflect the wonderful combination of Pinot grapes grown in the mosaic of clay, chalk and sand, together with extended lees-ageing in their deep, cool cellars.

We were really impressed with their range of champagnes, but in particular we thought that their Non-Vintage Brut Origine was particularly stunning.  It is made up of 50% Pinot Meunier, 40% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay and has spent three years ageing on the lees, which accounts for its lovely richness and depth.  It is fresh, creamy and balanced with a long crisp finish – a truly excellent non-vintage champagne.

The Fresnes have won many awards and medals in recent times and their champagnes are cited in such respected tomes as the Guide Hachette – the principal wine guide in France.