Meet Michel Genet's artisanal champagnes
It is not just the Grandes Marques that make great champagnes. In fact, there are hundreds of small family businesses in the Champagne region working passionately to create unique and quality champagnes. They are called récoltants-manipulants, or vignerons. One such small champagne farmer is Michel Genet.
No, not monsieur Michel Genet himself, who is the founder and namesake of the house. His children took over from him and now grandson Martin is also in the business. They are typical vignerons; champagne growers who no longer resell their grapes but make their own champagne. A trend that has been gaining ground in the world-famous wine region for some time and that the Genets have mastered to perfection. They even call themselves manufacteurs de grands crus, referring to the Latin words manu factum: handmade.
Sustainably
On their 9 hectares of vineyards, the Genet family grows grapes - mainly chardonnay, but also a little pinot noir - from vines that are 35 years old on average. The vineyards are spread over 37 different plots and they are all located in Chouilly, a grand cru commune of the Côte des Blancs. Annually, the Genets produce around 80,000 bottles sustainably. Because when you feel so deeply connected to your land, you also want to take very good care of it.
Terroir-driven
Vignerons like the Genet family are artisan winemakers. They work very terroir-driven, which is extra interesting considering that the terroir and exposition of their vineyards are extremely varied. Moreover, they work as naturally as possible. This principle is also reflected in the low dosage, something you often see with this type of winemakers. Their Blanc de Blancs Brut Spirit has a dosage of 7 g/l and is delicate, feather light and harmonious with a fine mousse and aromas of citrus fruits like lemon, tangerine and grapefruit. Even less added sugar has their Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature - namely only 2.5 g/l. This handcrafted champagne is lively and refined, with a feathery structure and floral aromas of honeysuckle and hawthorn. The wine has a creamy mouthfeel with notes of hazelnut and almonds and an aftertaste of exotic yellow fruit. Both champagnes are one of a kind.
Another tip: don't wait with your good champagnes until the clock strikes 12, but enjoy them all evening, with full attention. That's how they are made!
We wish you happy holidays and a vibrant New Year!
More information on these wines can be found on the website of Dutch importer Kwast Wijnkopers.
Michel Genet Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Spirit - Kwast Wijnkopers
Michel Genet Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature - Kwast Wijnkopers
