The De Venoge Brut Millésimé must have a certain affinity with the flavor of Cordon Bleu, and also reflect the vintage from which it is made. Accordingly, the blend is close to the Cordon Bleu, but includes more Pinot Noir (70%) in particular crops such as Aÿ and Verzenay with Chardonnay (15%) and Pinot Meunier (15%): this percentage ranges sometimes depending on weather conditions, as in 1988, but remains in the typical flavor.
This De Venoge Vintage is characterized by its body. With a relatively low acidity, it is round and soft, fun wine that may be suitable for any simple dish, or we can drink alone.
De Venoge Brut Millésimé is already perfectly matured when sell, but it can be cellered for up to two to three years. Some old vintages are still blockbusters even now.
What the critics say...
Wine Spectator: 91 points(01/01/2008)
Rich and concentrated, featuring candied berry, honey and citrus aromas and flavors, with a firm underlying structure. Nice grainy texture and lingering finish. Drink now through 2018.
the family hails from Switzerland and more precisely, from the region crossed by the river Venoge, hence the name which is often written de Venogiz or de la Venoge. Henri-Marc de Venoge, in 1825, set up in trade in Mareuil-sur-Ay, a business that in 1837 was to become the Champagne House that... carries his name. Later, his soon moved operations to Épernay.
It has no vineyards of its own and buys in all its own grapes, including 30% from the Cote de Sezanne as they believe it brings complexity to young blends. The range covers all possible styles from Blanc de Blancs to Blanc de Noirs. Half of the firms production is exported to the UK and German speaking countries. Their Cordon Bleu is a highly commendable non-vintage and when available the cuvee prestige ‘Des Princes’ is truly excellent.
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