G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge NV

Winery Background & History

G.H. Mumm & Cie is a historic Champagne house founded in 1827 in Reims, France by the Mumm brothers, German wine merchants who relocated to the Champagne region.  Over time it became one of the largest Champagne producers, and in 1876 the house adopted its signature red sash (“Cordon Rouge”) as a symbol of honor, inspired by the French Legion of Honor.  In modern times, G.H. Mumm has become part of the Pernod Ricard portfolio. 

Producer and Wine Maker

The cellarmaster and blending team at Mumm manage a large reserve wine inventory and source grapes from many crus across Champagne to maintain the house style.  Their mission with Cordon Rouge NV is to reflect vibrancy, balance, and expression of Pinot Noir dominance while preserving finesse. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Cordon Rouge NV draws grapes from over 120 villages / crus across key Champagne subregions: Montagne de Reims (Pinot Noir), Côte des Blancs (Chardonnay), Marne valleys, and Aube.  The chalk soils, cool continental climate with warm summers and cold nights, and good drainage contribute to acidity, minerality, and aromatic expression.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Cordon Rouge is a non-vintage brut champagne, matured for a minimum of 20 months on lees in Mumm’s cellars prior to disgorgement.  The blend is typically 45 % Pinot Noir, 30 % Chardonnay, 25 % Pinot Meunier, with inclusion of reserve wines to maintain consistency.  Each grape and cru parcel is vinified separately and then blended to achieve aromatic complexity. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Aromas of white and yellow fruits (peach, apricot), tropical hints (lychee), kiss of brioche/yeast, vanilla, and subtle toast. 

Palate: Fresh, lively, with citrus zest, white fruit, balanced by creamy texture and yeast tones. The finish is persistent, chalky-mineral, with fruit and toast echoing. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal as an aperitif. Pairs well with oysters, shellfish (scallops, shrimp), sushi, grilled fish, light creamy sauces, mild poultry, or salted almonds. The lively acidity cuts through richness.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C. Use a tulip flute or white wine balloon / blanc de blanc style glass to allow aromatic development while preserving fine bubbles.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store horizontally in a cool, dark cellar (≈ 10–12 °C). As a non-vintage house cuvée, best consumption window is within 5 to 8 years, though it may hold freshness beyond that.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Pinot Noir ~ 45 % 

• Chardonnay ~ 30 % 

• Pinot Meunier ~ 25 % 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12 % (typical for this Champagne style) 

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 90 pts