castelnau

Champagne Castelnau, founded in 1916 and based in Reims, stands out for its unique position as the flagship brand of the powerful CRVC cooperative. This gives it unparalleled access to diverse grape sources across Champagne. The house is particularly noted for its Chardonnay-influenced style and its commitment to extended lees aging (often 5 years or more for the Brut Réserve NV), which develops significant complexity, texture, and signature brioche notes while retaining freshness. Offering a range from Non-Vintage Brut and Rosé to Blanc de Blancs and Vintage expressions, Castelnau consistently delivers high-quality, well-structured Champagnes that often represent excellent value.

Champagne Castelnau was established in 1916, amidst World War I, and named after the respected French General Édouard de Castelnau as a tribute. Its modern identity is intrinsically linked to the Coopérative Régionale des Vins de Champagne (CRVC), which acquired the brand in 1962. This cooperative structure provides immense strength, drawing grapes from nearly 900 hectares across some of Champagne's best terroirs. Under the guidance of talented cellar masters (like Elisabeth Sarcelet for many years), Castelnau has championed long lees aging as a hallmark of its style, believing it essential for developing complexity and the wine's full potential. Recent investments in the winery and a stylish rebranding have aimed to bring the visual identity in line with the quality in the bottle, positioning Castelnau as a significant player offering both tradition and modern appeal.

• Appearance: Pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles.
• Nose: Initially presents fresh citrus (lemon peel, grapefruit) and white floral notes, evolving with air to reveal richer aromas of baked apple, brioche, toasted almonds, and a subtle yeasty complexity derived from its long lees aging.
• Palate: A well-balanced attack with crisp acidity and a creamy mousse. Flavours mirror the nose, showing citrus and orchard fruits layered with developed notes of pastry, nuts, and a hint of honey. The Chardonnay influence brings elegance, while the extended aging adds depth and texture.

Serving Temperature: Serve well-chilled, ideally between 8−10 ∘ C (46−50 ∘ F). Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped Champagne glass or a standard flute to best appreciate the aromas and bubble persistence. Occasions: Excellent as an aperitif, for celebrations, or paired with food. Its complexity makes it more versatile than simpler styles.

• Aperitif: Enjoy on its own or with light canapés (e.g., smoked salmon blinis, cheese gougères).
• Seafood: Oysters, scallops, grilled prawns, sea bass, fish terrines.
• White Meats: Roast chicken, turkey, pork loin with creamy sauces.
• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, Comté, or aged Parmesan.

• Exceptional Aging: Our commitment to extended lees aging delivers unparalleled complexity and texture, especially in our Brut Réserve NV.
• Chardonnay Elegance: The significant Chardonnay component provides finesse, freshness, and aging potential.
• Cooperative Strength: Access to diverse, high-quality grapes from nearly 900 hectares ensures consistency and depth year after year.
• Quality & Value: We offer sophisticated, well-structured Champagne that often provides excellent value compared to similarly complex wines from Grand Marques.

Champagne Castelnau is a serious and rewarding choice for those seeking complexity and depth beyond entry-level Champagne, without necessarily reaching the price points of some top prestige cuvées. Its signature style, driven by Chardonnay and extended lees aging, results in elegant, balanced, and food-friendly wines. Backed by the extensive resources of the CRVC, it offers consistent quality and represents strong value. A reliable and sophisticated option for both connoisseurs and those exploring beyond the most famous names.