Duval-Leroy Femme de Champagne Vintage 1996 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Established in 1859, Duval-Leroy is a family-owned Champagne house located in Vertus, within the Côte des Blancs sub-region of Champagne, France. Over six generations, the house has been recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation, producing Champagnes that reflect the elegance and richness of their terroir. The “Femme de Champagne” cuvée is a prestigious offering created to honor the influential women of the house, embodying finesse and complexity.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the leadership of President Carol Duval-Leroy, the house collaborates closely with Sandrine Logette-Jardin, the Cellar Master. Together, they bring a distinctive touch to their Champagnes, blending tradition with modernity. Their partnership has resulted in exceptional cuvées, including the “Femme de Champagne 1996,” which showcases their passion and expertise.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for this cuvée are sourced primarily from Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, specifically Avize, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Cramant, as well as from Ambonnay for the Pinot Noir. These terroirs benefit from a temperate climate with chalky soils, promoting optimal grape maturation and imparting a characteristic minerality and freshness to the Champagne.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 85% Chardonnay

• 15% Pinot Noir

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 1996 vintage experienced excellent weather conditions, allowing the grapes to reach perfect maturity. In this cuvée, 25% of the wines were aged on lees in oak barrels, contributing complexity and structure. The Champagne underwent extended aging, enhancing its depth and character. This meticulous process results in a wine that embodies the purity and expression of its terroir.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Tasting Notes

This Champagne presents a bright gold hue. The nose reveals aromas of white flowers, reminiscent of vine blossoms in June. On the palate, it offers remarkable minerality, with a fresh and silky texture. The finish reveals not just a very nice maturity and complexity, but also stunning aromatic stone fruit aromas.

Food & Wine Pairing

The “Femme de Champagne 1996” pairs harmoniously with refined dishes such as roasted langoustines and pineapple carpaccio. Its complexity and freshness enhance the delicate flavors of seafood, while its mineral notes and structure complement the subtle sweetness of the pineapple.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate this Champagne, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 8 and 10°C (46-50°F). Using tall, slender Champagne flutes helps concentrate the aromas and showcase the fine bubbles. Pour gently to preserve its effervescence, and consider allowing it to breathe for a few minutes before tasting to reveal its full aromatic complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

While already remarkable, this 1996 vintage possesses additional aging potential. Stored under optimal conditions—away from light, at a constant temperature between 10 and 15°C (50-59°F), and with controlled humidity—it can evolve favorably for several more years, developing tertiary aromas and increased complexity.