Champagne Barons de Rothschild Brut Nature NV

Winery Background and History

Champagne Barons de Rothschild was founded in 2005 through the collaboration of three branches of the Rothschild family—Lafite, Mouton, and Clarke. Their shared vision was to create a Champagne house that embodies the family’s commitment to excellence and tradition. By combining their expertise and resources, they aimed to produce Champagnes that reflect the elegance and refinement associated with the Rothschild name.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the guidance of Cellar Master Guillaume Lété, Champagne Barons de Rothschild focuses on crafting wines that showcase the purity and finesse of Chardonnay, balanced by the structure of Pinot Noir. Lété’s approach emphasizes meticulous vineyard selection and precise winemaking techniques to ensure consistency and quality across vintages.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for the Brut Nature NV are sourced from over 85% Grand and Premier Cru vineyards, including Avize, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Vertus, and Trépail for Chardonnay, and Aÿ, Verzenay, and Ambonnay for Pinot Noir. These areas are renowned for their chalky soils and cool continental climate, which contribute to the wine’s minerality, freshness, and aromatic complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Brut Nature NV is crafted using the traditional method (méthode champenoise), where secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle. The blend consists of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, with 40% reserve wines maintained in a perpetual reserve system. The wine undergoes extended aging on the lees for a minimum of 4 years, enhancing its complexity and texture. No dosage is added, resulting in a Brut Nature style that emphasizes purity and terroir expression.

Tasting Notes

This Champagne presents a pale golden hue with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose offers intense aromas of white flowers, lemon cream, and subtle notes of toast. On the palate, it is precise and clear on entry, followed by a silky freshness upheld by notes of citrus and white fruit. The creamy sensation of finely chiselled bubbles carries the wine to a long, mineral-driven finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

The Brut Nature NV pairs elegantly with a variety of dishes. Its freshness and minerality complement seafood such as oysters, scallops, and grilled sea bass. It also harmonizes well with poultry dishes, light pasta, and soft cheeses. For a delightful contrast, try it with citrus-based desserts or almond pastries.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, serve this Champagne chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate its aromas and showcase its effervescence. No decanting is necessary; simply pour and enjoy its vibrant character.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the Brut Nature NV is ready to enjoy upon release, it can benefit from further aging. Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine can develop additional complexity over the next 3 to 5 years.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 60% Chardonnay

• 40% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12%

Scores

• James Suckling: 93 points

• Wine Advocate (Robert Parker): 91+ points

• Decanter: 90 points

• Jancis Robinson: 16/20