Velut, Jean

There are a string of “lost” producing villages north of the Côte de Sézanne and south of the Côte des Blancs with no identity at all; while one of the most famous vineyards of the Aube region, Montgueux is sited well away from the rest, just southwest of Troyes. Montgueux is known as the “Montrachet of the Côte de Bars” for its fascinating and distinctive Chardonnays, but who in London, New York, or Tokyo has ever tasted champagne made from them? – Andrew Jefford, The New France.  

Denis Velut’s grandfather Jean established this 7 hectare domaine as a récoltant/manipulant thirty years ago. He practices organic viticulture and does not use any insecticides or chemical fertilizers, instead opting to use organic compost. The wines are made entirely in stainless steel.

Montgueux sits atop an elevated plateau of pure chalk and vines can reach as deep as 60 feet deep. Because of its unique terroir, mostly Chardonnay is grown (about 85%). Pinot Noir is grown in the outcroppings of red clay soil. Pockets of flinty silex add smokey minerality to the NV Brut (85% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Noir).  The 2002 is a Blanc de Blancs although not declared on the label because not every vintage is 100% Chardonnay.  The 2002 is from a parcel that is dominated by silex soils and clearly shows the unique terroir that only exists in Montgueux.