Undisturbed by the inevitable vagaries of history and nature, the Philipponnat family has remained faithfully committed to the land and traditions of Champagne for over five centuries. Although the eponymous maison was founded in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in 1910 by Pierre and Auguste Philipponnat, the family had long made the village its spiritual and professional home. Records show that the Philipponnats owned vineyards in Le Léon, between Aÿ and Dizy, as far back as 1522 – a date full of symbolism and celebratory meaning. Since then, 16 generations have defined a lineage of talent, craftsmanship, winemaking skill and, perhaps most importantly, passion for the land, vines and wines of Champagne. This humble connection to the land and its people remains at the core of what Champagne Philipponnat is today.
Modern classicism
In recent years, and with Charles Philipponnat at the helm of the maison since 2000, the character of the Philipponnat’s wines has only affirmed itself, consolidating a style founded in history and tradition. The house’s imprint is very much a reflection of its historical trajectory and deep-rooted legacy, its philosophy perfectly conveyed through the choices in both vineyard and cellar. The use of oak-aged perpetual reserves is one of the trademarks of Philipponnat, lending complexity and an historical thread to the profile of each cuvée. Robustly flavoured without losing elegance, rich while inherently fresh, each wine is a piece of a narrative now in its 500th chapter.
The classicism of Philipponnat cannot be understood separately from the charismatic twinkle in Charles’ eyes, which reflects the same wonder and sense of belonging that inspired his ancestors, 500 years ago. This very same ethos is translated, quite transparently, into the style of Philipponnat’s champagnes – wines of great purity, with finely carved yet opulent flavours, generous texture and poised capacity to age.
Five centuries celebrated
To mark the fifth centennial anniversary of the Philipponnat family’s commitment to Champagne, the maison has launched a book, co-written by Charles Philipponnat himself. The volume documents the family’s past as growers and merchants, as well as the evolution of the maison and its iconic cuvées. One of which is the aptly named 1522, a living tribute to the family’s settlement date in Aÿ. The latest iteration of this emblematic wine, from the 2015 vintage, is also being launched as part of the momentous anniversary. A bottled piece of history, that exalts the legacy of a family at the service of the vines of Champagne.
Discover more about Champagne Philipponnat
Connect onFacebook | Instagram
-
Selvanella: A Chianti Classico pioneerSponsored Content In 1969, when Chianti Classico was still dominated by blends and bulk production, one estate put the name of its vineyard on the label. It was an act of conviction that still defines it today.
-
Gavi: Piedmont’s hidden gemSponsored Content Set between the Apennines and the Ligurian coast, Gavi combines medieval charm, distinctive gastronomy and one of Italy’s finest wines.
-
Cuatro Rayas: Past-proofing the futureSponsored Content Responsible for the largest area under vine in Rueda, this forward-thinking wine cooperative has embraced its role as the custodian of an invaluable natural and cultural heritage.
-
Cantina Tollo: Business not as usualSponsored Content In the heart of Abruzzo, Cantina Tollo is proving that cooperatives are becoming a key source of quality wine. The benchmark producer shows how a long-term vision can balance tradition and innovation to create a truly sustainable business – and some very serious wines.
-
Two different faces of Tuscany: Castello di Radda and Cantina Fabio MottaSponsored Content For 50 years the Agricole Gussalli Beretta group has been dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality in Italy’s most prestigious wine-growing regions.
-
Tenuta Il Finale – Shining a spotlight on Piedmont’s land and grapesSponsored Content A friendship forged through the world of business led three wine lovers to the steep hills of Piedmont, where they are championing the region’s local varieties.
-
Bordeaux whites and crémants: Energy, freshness and renewalSponsored Content A deep dive into the new-wave dry white and sparkling wines from a region undergoing a vibrant renaissance creating crisp, lively expressions that blend Atlantic freshness, historical roots, and modern innovation for everyday enjoyment.
-
Explore Spain with Pata NegraSponsored Content Celebrate the exciting diversity of the Spanish wine scene with the pioneering umbrella brand that brings together a selection of top denominations under just one label. The Pata Negra range allows you to explore regions from Rioja to Rueda – and beyond.
