G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge NV (Gift Box)

Winery Background & History

G.H. Mumm & Cie was founded in 1827 in Reims, France, by the Mumm brothers, German wine merchants who moved to Champagne.  The house became known for its signature “Cordon Rouge” (red sash) branding — first used in 1876 as a nod to the French Legion of Honour — which grew to symbolize quality and prestige.  Over time, Mumm expanded its vineyard sourcing across Champagne’s crus to maintain consistency and volume, and today it is part of the Pernod Ricard group. 

Producer and Winemaker

The house relies on a Chef de Caves and blending team, rather than a single winemaker, to craft the cuvées. Their objective is to preserve the style of Cordon Rouge NV: a vibrant, fruit-forward Champagne with a balance of structure and elegance.  The gift box version is the same wine, packaged in a premium presentation suitable for gifting or display.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Cordon Rouge is drawn from over 120 villages/crus across Champagne.  Key grape varieties include Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims and the Aube, Chardonnay from Côte des Blancs and Sézannais, and Meunier from Marne and other valleys.  The chalky soils and cool continental climate—characterized by warm days, cool nights, and moderate rainfall—help maintain acidity and aromatic finesse.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Each grape variety and cru is vinified separately, often in stainless steel. The final blend typically is ~ 45 % Pinot Noir, 30 % Chardonnay, 25 % Pinot Meunier.  Around 25–30 % reserve wines are incorporated to maintain consistency.  The wine is aged on its lees for at least 20 months in Mumm’s cellars before disgorgement. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh white and yellow fruits (peach, apricot), tropical touches (lychee, pineapple), hints of brioche, toast, vanilla, and gentle pastry. 

Palate: Lively acidity, vibrant fruit, creamy mousse, harmonious structure, and balanced texture. 

Finish: Persistent, with fruit and toast recurrences, minerality, and a refined chalky note. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal as an aperitif, or with oysters, sushi, shellfish, poached fish, creamy poultry dishes, soft cheeses, or even light desserts. The wine’s freshness supports pairing across styles.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8-10 °C. Use a tulip flute or white wine balloon to allow aromas to expand while maintaining fine bubbles. Avoid overchilling to preserve aromatic expression.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store horizontally in a cool, dark cellar (≈ 10–12 °C). The NV cuvée is best consumed within 5–8 years, though in excellent conditions it may retain freshness slightly longer.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Pinot Noir ~ 45 %

• Chardonnay ~ 30 %

• Pinot Meunier ~ 25 %

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12 %

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 90 pts (per PJ Wine listing)