CAILLEZ LEMAIRE
Husband and wife team Virginie and Laurent Vanpoperingh run this small family estate on the banks of the River Marne in Damery, marking the latest chapter in a grape-growing lineage that dates back to the 18th century. The family began estate-bottling in 1942, and under Virginie and Laurent's stewardship since 2005, the estate has expanded from 2 to 6.17 hectares. In 2020, the estate earned official organic certification. The vineyards benefit from excellent sun exposures on slopes that hug the River Marne, making it a prime territory for Meunier, which thrives in these dense soils. In the vineyard, the team avoids chemical sprays to prioritize biodiversity and deep vine rooting. In the cellar, they practice minimal intervention, utilizing seasoned oak barrels and delicate handling. This allows each distinct plot to express its unique terroir, yielding highly nuanced, textured champagnes that dramatically over-deliver.