Laherte Frères
Champagne
Address:
Champagne Laherte Brothers, Rue des Jardins, Chavot-Courcourt, France
Website:
Winemaker:
First Vintage:
Aurélien Laherte
1983
Accepts Visitors:
Special Request
PRESTIGE
4
Summary
Laherte Frères is a family-owned winery nestled in the picturesque Champagne region of France, known for its commitment to expressing the unique terroir of their vineyards through exceptional sparkling wines. The estate, founded in the 19th century, is currently helmed by the Laherte family's latest generation, who infuse traditional winemaking methods with contemporary, sustainable practices.
As you approach Laherte Frères, you're immediately struck by the idyllic landscape of rolling hills lined with meticulously tended vines. The estate spreads across several prime locations, with parcels in the Côteaux Sud d'Épernay, Vallée de la Marne, and Côte des Blancs. Each parcel contributes distinct characteristics to the wines, thanks to varying soils and microclimates.
The vineyards are farmed with a philosophy rooted in respecting the environment and ecosystem. Laherte Frères practices organic viticulture and is also influenced by biodynamic principles, emphasizing the importance of a living soil. This approach ensures the health of the vines and the vibrancy of the fruit. It's not uncommon to see a diverse mix of cover crops between the vine rows, promoting biodiversity and natural soil enrichment.
Visiting the winery, you're likely to be greeted by a member of the Laherte family, often Aurélien Laherte, who is passionate about showcasing the nuances of their terroir. The winery itself is a blend of heritage and innovation—traditional wooden presses are used alongside modern winemaking equipment, ensuring precision and quality.
The cellar is a treasure trove of chalky subterranean tunnels where the bottles age gracefully. Laherte Frères is known for their meticulous attention to the aging process, where their champagnes develop complexity and the signature finesse that connoisseurs around the world celebrate.
Laherte Frères' portfolio boasts a range of champagnes, from the vibrant and pure Ultradition line to the single vineyard Les Empreintes, which encapsulates the essence of a specific terroir. They also produce a rare and sought-after cuvée, the Vignes d'Autrefois, made from ungrafted Pinot Meunier vines, a nod to the rich history and resilience of their land.
Tasting sessions are an intimate experience, often taking place in the old cellars or the tastefully designed tasting room with views of the vineyards. Visitors can expect to explore a selection of champagnes, each telling a story of their origin through the delicate bubbles, aromatic bouquet, and elegant palate.
In addition to their exquisite wines, Laherte Frères is also committed to sustainability beyond the vineyards. The winery is conscious of its carbon footprint, employing measures like reduced water usage, recycling, and utilizing lighter bottles to minimize environmental impact.
A visit to Laherte Frères is not merely a tasting experience; it's a journey through Champagne's heritage, a discovery of the Laherte family's dedication to crafting wines that honor their ancestry while embracing innovation for a greener future.