H Blin Champagne
H. Blin is a respected Champagne cooperative based in Vincelles, in the heart of the Marne Valley, particularly renowned for its Champagnes crafted predominantly from the Pinot Meunier grape, resulting in fruity, accessible, and well-rounded wines.
Champagne H. Blin & Cie was established in 1947 by Henri Blin along with 29 other growers in the village of Vincelles. It operates as a Société Coopérative de Production, meaning the member growers pool their grapes to produce Champagne under the H. Blin label. The cooperative controls around 120 hectares of vineyards, with a significant emphasis on Pinot Meunier (around 70%), complemented by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This focus on Pinot Meunier, typical of the Marne Valley, defines the house style, lending the wines a characteristic fruitiness, suppleness, and approachability. They combine traditional methods with modern techniques to create a range of Champagnes, from their classic Non-Vintage Brut to Rosé, Blanc de Blancs, and Vintage expressions, all reflecting the unique terroir of Vincelles.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles.
Nose: Fresh and fruity, often displaying aromas of apple (green or baked), pear, citrus zest (lemon, grapefruit), sometimes subtle floral notes, and hints of brioche or almond from lees aging.
Palate: Round and approachable, reflecting the Pinot Meunier dominance. Good balance between fruitiness, acidity, and creaminess. Flavors often mirror the nose, with orchard fruits and citrus leading, possibly with a touch of red fruit character. The finish is typically clean and refreshing.
Note: Specific cuvées like Blanc de Blancs (Chardonnay) or Vintage wines will have different profiles.
Food Pairings
Appetizers: Canapés, gougères, light charcuterie, oysters.
Seafood: Grilled shrimp, scallops, lighter fish dishes.
White Meats: Chicken, pork loin.
Cheese: Brie, Camembert, Comté.
Serving Suggestions
Temperature: Serve well-chilled, ideally between $8-10^\circ$C ($46-50^\circ$F).
Glassware: Use a Champagne flute or, preferably, a tulip-shaped glass to better appreciate the aromas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interesting Facts
Cooperative Structure: It's a cooperative owned by the grape growers themselves, ensuring they have control over the winemaking process and benefit directly.
Pinot Meunier Focus: Their specialization in Pinot Meunier distinguishes them, as many larger houses focus more on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Pinot Meunier often provides fruitiness and approachability in youth.
Location: Vincelles in the Marne Valley is prime territory for Pinot Meunier.