Vilmart & Cie

Vilmart & Cie is an esteemed Champagne house, renowned for its tradition and artisanal approach to winemaking. Nestled in the heart of the Montagne de Reims in the village of Rilly-la-Montagne, this winery is not just a place where fine Champagne is produced; it's a sanctuary where the alchemy of wine is enshrined.

The winery was founded in 1890 by Desire Vilmart and has been passed down through the generations, maintaining its status as a family-owned domaine. Today, under the guidance of Laurent Champs, the great-great-grandson of the founder, Vilmart & Cie has not only sustained its prestigious reputation but has enhanced it, embracing both innovation and profound respect for tradition.

The estate stretches over 11 hectares, predominantly planted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines, which are the lifeblood of the house's elegant cuvées. Vilmart & Cie is often regarded as a 'grower Champagne' due to their meticulous commitment to nurturing their vineyards and ensuring that the utmost quality grapes are the foundation of their wines.

Upon entering the winery, visitors are often embraced by the lush greenery of the meticulously tended vines, a testament to the winery's dedication to sustainable viticulture, and a clear message of the house's philosophy that great wine starts in the vineyard. The winery has been practicing "lutte raisonnée" (sustainable viticulture) for several decades, shunning the use of chemical fertilizers and herbicides, an approach that speaks volumes about their respect for the terroir and the environment.

Vilmart's vinification process is a fascinating blend of art and precision. The winery is famed for its use of small oak casks and larger foudres for the fermentation and aging of its wines, a rarity in the Champagne region. This technique endows the Champagne with remarkable complexity, structure, and a subtle, yet distinct, toasty character. The wines are left to mature in the tranquility of the cellar, allowing them to develop their depth and the sumptuous layers of flavors that make each sip a discovery.

The portfolio of Vilmart & Cie is a dazzling showcase of the winery's craftsmanship, with each bottle reflecting the unique character of the estate's terroir. From the vibrant and energetic 'Grand Cellier' to the exquisite, finely textured 'Coeur de Cuvée', the winery's offerings are the epitome of Champagne's luxury and refinement.

Visitors to Vilmart & Cie can expect a warm welcome and a profound sensory experience, as each tasting is not just about savoring the Champagne, but about understanding the soul of the house and the passion infused into every bubble. The intimate setting, the interaction with the winemakers, and the chance to explore the cellars and witness the aging process in person, all contribute to the unforgettable experience that Vilmart & Cie provides to its guests.

In summary, Vilmart & Cie is a gem in the Champagne region – a place where tradition, innovation, and an unyielding dedication to quality coincide to create some of the world's most captivating Champagnes. It is a destination that should be high on the list for any discerning lover of fine wine and those who seek an authentic, luxurious experience in the realm of viticulture.