Charles De

Charles de Cazanove is a respected Champagne producer with roots dating back to 1811 in the prestigious city of Reims. Founded by Charles Gabriel de Cazanove, the house embodies centuries of Champagne-making tradition. Now part of the G.H. Martel group, it continues to produce a comprehensive range of Champagnes, from its accessible Brut NV to more complex vintage and prestige cuvées. Known for consistency and reflecting the classic Champagne style, Charles de Cazanove offers wines suitable for celebrations and fine dining, representing a blend of heritage and reliable quality from the heart of the Champagne region.

The story begins in 1811 when Charles Gabriel de Cazanove, a young man from a family of glassmakers, founded his own Champagne house in Avize, later moving to Reims. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to quality helped establish the brand's reputation. Over the generations, the house navigated the challenges and triumphs of the Champagne region, including phylloxera, wars, and economic shifts. There are historical anecdotes suggesting links to influential figures, adding to its storied past (though specific claims like supplying royalty should be verified per cuvée/era). In the 20th century, ownership changes occurred, eventually leading to its integration into the G.H. Martel group in the early 2000s. Despite these changes, the house strives to honor its founder's legacy by maintaining traditional methods while utilizing modern techniques to ensure consistent quality across its diverse range.

• Appearance: Typically pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles.
• Nose: Often presents aromas of fresh green apple, citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit), white flowers, and subtle notes of brioche or toasted bread, indicating some lees aging.

Serving Temperature: Serve well-chilled, ideally between 8−10 ∘ C (46−50 ∘ F). Over-chilling can mute the aromas. Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped Champagne glass or a standard white wine glass to allow aromas to develop. Traditional flutes are visually appealing but less ideal for appreciating the nose. Occasions: Excellent as an apéritif, for celebratory toasts, or paired with food. Opening: Point the bottle away from yourself and others. Loosen the cage, hold the cork firmly, and twist the bottle (not the cork) slowly until the cork eases out with a gentle sigh, not a loud pop.

• Brut NV: Versatile pairings include oysters, shrimp cocktail, light appetizers, sushi, fried chicken, popcorn, and creamy cheeses like Brie.
• Rosé: Pairs well with salmon, duck, lighter meat dishes, red fruit desserts, and goat cheese.
• Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay): Ideal with delicate seafood, shellfish, white fish, and lighter chicken dishes.

• Heritage: Choose Charles de Cazanove for a taste of history, with over 200 years of Champagne-making expertise originating in the heart of Reims.
• Quality & Consistency: We offer reliable, well-made Champagnes crafted with care, ensuring a consistently enjoyable experience bottle after bottle.
• Range: Our diverse portfolio provides a Champagne for every palate and occasion, from refreshing Brut and elegant Rosé to complex Vintage cuvées.
• Value: We strive to deliver excellent quality that represents good value within the Champagne category.

Charles de Cazanove represents a solid and reliable choice in the world of Champagne. With a genuine history stretching back to 1811 and operations based in the important city of Reims, it offers authentic Champagne credentials. While perhaps not always reaching the absolute heights of the most exclusive prestige cuvées, the house provides consistently well-made wines across a range of styles, often at a competitive price point. It's a dependable option for those seeking classic Champagne character, whether for a large celebration (thanks to its accessible Brut NV) or a more considered food pairing with its vintage or specific cuvées. A worthy consideration for exploring Champagne beyond the most globally recognized names.