Champagne Louis Balincourt, based in Châlons-en-Champagne, at the heart of the Marne region, stands as a benchmark in the world of wine tourism. Their participation in the upcoming edition of FINE #WineTourism Marketplace highlights the importance of this house in promoting champagne culture and its commitment to excellence.

A noble lineage and a winemaking legacy of over two centuries

The Testu de Balincourt family, originating from French nobility with roots in Anjou, Picardy, and Champagne, has left an indelible mark on the history of France. The name “Testu” reflects the tenacity and bravery of their ancestors, many of whom served in the army.

A notable example is Louis Testu, who in 1620 was appointed Knight of the Order of Saint Michael and later, in 1625, received the title of Lord of Balincourt from King Louis XIII. That same year, the monarch granted him lands in the Marne, where the family settled and began their legacy in champagne production.

Founded in 1804, Maison Louis Balincourt has maintained a century-old tradition of crafting champagnes of great elegance and subtlety. The winery prides itself on selecting only the first press juices to ensure the highest quality in its products.

Image: Champagnes Louis Balincourt

An underground journey through historic ‘crayères’ and the essence of champagne

One of the most outstanding experiences offered by Champagne Louis Balincourt is the visit to its impressive crayères, ancient underground chalk quarries dating back to the Gallo-Roman era. Located nearly 30 metres underground, these galleries were used for centuries to extract stone for building houses and churches, including the iconic Reims Cathedral.

Today, these quarries, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serve as ideal cellars for ageing the house’s finest wines, offering visitors a deep immersion into the history and process of champagne making.

In addition to guided tours of the crayères, the winery organises tastings of its various cuvées, allowing wine tourists to taste and appreciate the richness of their aromas and the complexity of their flavours. These experiences are designed to cater to different visitor profiles, from enthusiasts to wine connoisseurs, providing a comprehensive understanding of the heritage and savoir-faire of the Maison.

Image: Champagnes Louis Balincourt

Balance between tradition and innovation in each ‘cuvée’

Champagne Louis Balincourt combines tradition and innovation in its production approach. The winery has recently launched the cuvée “Brut de Craie,” a 100% Chardonnay that stands out for its mature and complex aromas, as well as its delicate finish. This champagne is a testament to the house’s commitment to excellence and the constant pursuit of perfection in every bottle.

The use of the crayères for ageing their wines is not only a practice that honours tradition but also represents a sustainable approach. These underground cellars maintain a constant temperature of 10°C and optimal humidity, ideal conditions for ageing champagne without the need for technological intervention, thus reducing the carbon footprint of production.

Champagne Louis Balincourt’s participation in the Feria de Valladolid offers a unique opportunity to discover a house with a rich history and a deep commitment to quality and tradition. Attendees are invited to visit their stand to learn more about their exceptional champagnes and plan a visit to their historic crayères. For more information, you can visit their official website.