May 2026

Happy Anniversary Champagne Club members! Whether you’re just joining us or you’ve been here from the start, we’re so glad to have you.

Since this is a special month, we sent you something really special: Champagne Caillez Lemaire, produced by husband and wife team Virginie and Laurent Vanpoperingh. We’ve been working with Virginie and Laurent for over five years and they are some of the kindest, most thoughtful people and winemakers we have ever met.

Virginie is a fifth generation winemaker and has been a careful steward for the vines on their small family estate on the banks of the River Marne. Fun fact: Virginie’s family has been making wine since the 18th century. In 1942, they rebelled and started making their own wines rather than continuing to sell their grapes to the bigger houses. Today, they farm organically and have not used chemicals in the vineyards for over a decade. In the cellar their approach is to let the grapes and terroir shine through.

Their use of old oak barrels add another layer of complexity and the small interactions with oxygen in the aging process sets these wines up for a long aging potential. There is a very distinct feeling when drinking these wines that you are drinking great champagne. To us, these bottles are reminiscent of some of the best champagne you’ve ever had (bold statement, we know). The stature, class and build of these wines are world class. 

Read more about Champagne Caillez Lemaire on Cage Imports.

The Wines

These wines are elegant and refined, their approach is classic and the wines far outshine their contemporaries. Don’t miss our One Bottle Reviews and be sure to grab a few extra bottles while supplies last.

The Eclats is a blend of all three grapes but is Chardonnay dominated. 45% Chardonnay, 30% Meunier and 25% Pinot Noir predominantly from the 2017 vintage. It has been lightly dosed at 2g for amazing balance and has been aged for 7 years on the lees giving it a luxurious feel on the palate and deeply layered and complex flavors. Why we love it: This is a complex wine with bright citrus notes and a crisp, salty finish.  The vibe: Fancy grilled cheese, fish tacos

The Rosé could be a vote for best in class from the entire region. The wine is 54% Meunier and 46% Pinot Noir all from the 2023 vintage. Its light and elegant color give you a hint of what is next. Put it in a big glass and let it warm as you drink it. You will be happy you did. Why we love it: I almost don't want to say anything about it so you can experience it for the first time unbiased. I am actually kind of jealous... The vibe: Pepperoni pizza or on the lighter side prosciutto and melon.