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standout history dating back to the 1740s

about Nicolas Chiquet first planted vines in 1746; wine was first made in 1919 by brothers Gaston and Fernand. In 1935, Gaston started his own winery, expanding plantings and production with his son Claude. His sons, Antoine and Nicolas took over in 2003, and now Antoine’s daughter Marion is moving the winery to the next generation. 23ha are owned. The style is elegant, lightly rich, and classic Champagne blends, although more Chardonnay is planted than is common for Vallée de la Marne, with 50% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 20% Meunier planted.

wines tasted

“Tradition” Premier Cru NV ($55)

40% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Noir. Although this is Gaston Chiquet's "introductory" wine, it's nevertheless serious, complex, and of exemplary provenance. It comes from several Premier Cru villages: Hautvilliers, Dizy (where Gaston Chiquet is based), Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and Aÿ, all located just north of Epernay in Montagne de Reims. 80% of the wine is vintage based, the other 20% from the previous year from 2013. Elegant, structured, with green, citrus fruits, and quietly complex. 6g/l dosage adds a light richness.

Gaston Chiquet Or Premier Cru (vintage) ($70-75)

60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay—the Pinot Noir base a little unusual for Gaston Chiquet, giving the wine a rich weight balanced by the vibrancy of Chardonnay. Five years on the lees, with 8g/l dosage, although the wine usually receives extended bottle ageing after disgorgement. A mature, sophisticated champagne.

Special Club Grand Cru (vintage) ($105)

70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, from the villages of Hautvillers, Dizy and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. Aged for around seven years on the lees, with 8g/l dosage. The Chardonnay gives the wine a vibrant lift, though the overall style is rich and leesy. Great example of the Special Club style.

website https://www.gastonchiquet.com/

email info@gastonchiquet.com

phone +33 3 26 55 22 02

address 906, avenue du Général Leclerc, Dizy