Champagne Canard Duchene ‘Cuvee Leonie’ Brut

50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier and 20% Chardonnay

Champagne Canard-Duchêne is one of the most prominent Champagne marques and, while it is exported around the world, it ramins a particularly popular brand in its domestic market.

The house was founded in 1868 by cooper Victor Canard and his wife Léonie Duchêne, who hailed from a family of winegrowers. They were granted the right by the Russian Imperial Family to carry their coat of arms on the label – a practice which continues to this day.

The business headquarters has, since inception, been located in Ludes, on a hillside in the heart of the Montagne de Reims vineyards. This contrasts with most other Champagne houses, who are generally based in either Reims or Épernay.

As with many of this firm’s Champagnes, Pinot Noir is the dominant grape in the blend. Named after Léonie Duchêne, one of the founders of the house, it is smooth and rich in ripe white fruit and melon flavors. Tang at the end gives a delicious lift.