Leclerc Briant

History of Champagne Leclerc-Briant

Champagne Leclerc-Briant was founded in 1872 by Lucien Leclerc in Cumières. From the beginning, this Champagne estate distinguished itself through its quest for excellence and respect for the terroir. In 1955, Bertrand Leclerc, great-grandson of the founder, and his wife Jacqueline Briant, transformed the family estate into a trading house, giving birth to the famous Maison Leclerc Briant, now established in Épernay. Visionary and concerned with preserving the environment, Bertrand Leclerc was one of the first to introduce organic practices in the 1960s. 

The transition to biodynamics took place in the 1980s under the impetus of Pascal Leclerc, son of Bertrand. His innovative approach placed Leclerc-Briant at the pinnacle of organic champagne production, a pioneer in the region. In 2012, the house was taken over by an American couple, Mark Nunnelly and Denise Dupré, lovers of the French art of living, who breathed new energy into the estate. They entrusted the management to Frédéric Zeimett, a native Champenois, thus ensuring that the heritage and values of the house are preserved and carried to the highest level.

Terroirs and Vineyards of Champagne Leclerc-Briant

The terroirs occupy a central place in the development of Leclerc-Briant champagnes. The estate currently cultivates 14 hectares of vines, the majority of which are classified as Grand Cru and Premier Cru, in renowned villages such as Mailly, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Hautvillers, and Cumières. This exceptional heritage is complemented by purchases of grapes from growers certified in organic and biodynamic farming, carefully selected for their commitment to the same values.

The Leclerc-Briant vineyard is a model of respectful viticulture, with organic certification obtained in 2004 and biodynamic certification in 2008. These practices, dictated by a deep respect for nature, allow each parcel to fully reveal its potential. The grape varieties used by the house include Pinot Noir (53%), Pinot Meunier (47%) and Chardonnay (100% for white grape varieties), and each parcel is worked with meticulous care to express the singularity of its terroir.

Winemaking at Champagne Leclerc-Briant

The philosophy of winemaking at Leclerc-Briant is based on a non-interventionist approach. Under the direction of Hervé Jestin, an oenologist renowned for his expertise in biodynamics, the house crafts its champagnes with the utmost respect for nature. Each step, from pressing to disgorgement, is carried out gently and naturally, allowing the wines to flourish without any artificial correction.

Fermentations occur spontaneously, often in a combination of stainless steel tanks, oak barrels and even terracotta eggs, promoting a pure and lively expression of the wine. The aging of the wines lasts more than nine months, followed by a long period of maturation in the deep cellars of the house, 35 meters underground. These ideal conditions guarantee optimal maturation, giving birth to champagnes of great verticality and exceptional purity.

Another key aspect of the Leclerc-Briant style is the low dosage of the wines, often in extra-brut, which allows the cuvées to express their terroir without artifice. These champagnes captivate enthusiasts with their tension, finesse and unique character.

The cuvées of Champagne Leclerc-Briant

The Leclerc-Briant house offers a range of champagnes of great diversity, divided into three categories: the Classics, the Parcel Selections and the Specialties. Each cuvée reflects both the terroir and the harvest year, with an elegant style and singular energy.

The Classics

Réserve Brut, Rosé Extra Brut, Millésime Extra Brut, Rosé de Saignée Extra Brut, Blanc de Blancs, Cuvée Divine Extra Brut en Solera, Cuvée Divine Demi-Sec en Solera

The Parcel Selections

Les Monts Ferrés, Les Basses Prières, Le Clos des Trois Clochers

The Specialties

150th Anniversary, Blanc de Meuniers, Grand Blanc, Cuvée Abyss, Cuvée Abyss Rosé 

Among these cuvées, the Cuvée Abyss is particularly emblematic. This champagne is immersed for 12 months at the bottom of the sea, off the island of Ouessant, a technique that gives the wine a unique dimension, both saline and deeply energetic.

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Champagne Leclerc-Briant is much more than just a Champagne house. It is a committed estate, a pioneer in biodynamics, embodying both tradition and innovation. Its cuvées reflect the authenticity of their terroir and the mastery of environmentally respectful craftsmanship. Whether you are looking for a champagne for a special occasion or for a gastronomic tasting, Leclerc-Briant offers a unique experience, marked by elegance, complexity and rare singularity.