Jacques Defrance, Champagne, France

JACQUES DEFRANCE, IN THE HEART OF THE CHAMPAGNE.

The Champagne house Jacques Defrance is located in the sub-region Aube-en-Champagne in the heart of the Côtes des Bar . The winery dates back to 1867 and is now owned by Christophe Defrance , the fourth generation . The Defrance family made a big leap in quality in the 1960s. In 1991 a major investment followed with the construction of a new building, in which a wine cellar with modern cellar equipment, including bottling line and storage space was installed.

A PICTURESQUE VILLAGE NEAR CHABLIS

Les Riceys is a picturesque village situated at the foot of the hills. Just outside the village, the vineyards are located on slopes facing south and southeast. The sheltered location, surrounded by forests, contributes to an optimal ripening of the grapes. The total planting amounts to 10 hectares with plantings of: 85% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Meunier. The soil consists mainly of limestone and fossil remains. According to Jacques DeFrance, the soil composition has many similarities with that of Chablis. Not so surprising since the region is approximately 50 kilometers away from Chablis.

Les Riceys is the only village that has three specific areas of origin :
1. Champagne, 2. Rosé des Riceys (still wine), a specialty and unique in the Champagne region and 3. Coteaux Champenois (still wine, white or red).

STOVES FOR THE 'FRANCE'

Champagne has the harshest climate of all the French wine regions. Nevertheless, wines are produced here that are known all over the world. It is the northernmost wine region of France. The wine growers take considerable risks every year and the risk of frost is always present . That is why small stoves are placed in the well-tended vineyards in the spring to keep the vines warm.

The champagnes of Jacques Defrance are of very good quality and also nicely priced. They are accessible and balanced . Especially the Brut with its soft fruit and modest acidity comes across quite soft and fruity. The style is less strict than most champagnes, which makes it a hit with the 'beginner' champagne drinker and for that reason also fits very well on many wine lists. But of course also for the experienced champagne lover the 'Brut of Jaqcues' is an asset for every moment.