Philipponnat Royale Réserve Brut NV

Winery Background and History

Philipponnat’s winegrowing heritage stretches back to 1522 with April de Philipponnat’s acquisition of vineyards in Aÿ. The Champagne house was officially established in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in 1910 and remains family-led under Charles Philipponnat’s stewardship. Known for its commitment to terroir and tradition, Philipponnat distinguishes itself through methods such as solera-aged reserve wine integration, oak vinification, and printing disgorgement dates—all contributing to structured, elegant, and consistently expressive non‑vintage cuvées 

Producer and Wine Maker

Charles Philipponnat leads the winemaking team with a focus on maintaining precision and expression across vintages. The production of Royale Réserve involves blending first-press juice with 20–30% reserve wines aged via the solera system. Fermentations occur in both oak and stainless steel, with partial malolactic fermentation, lees aging, and low dosage creating depth, richness, and consistent house style 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes come from a mosaic of Grand and Premier Cru vineyards in Aÿ, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Avenay, and Mutigny. These south-facing chalk slopes offer excellent sun exposure and drainage, producing concentrated fruit with refined minerality, contributing to the wine’s energetic yet structured character 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Royale Réserve is crafted from first-press juice, with 20–30% reserve wines added via the solera method. Conventional fermentation uses a mix of oak and stainless steel vessels. Partial malolactic fermentation is applied. Lees aging lasts for about three years, and the wine is finished with a moderate dosage of around 8 g/L to balance freshness and complexity 

Tasting Notes

Deep gold in color with amber glints. The nose unfolds with vine blossom, linden, freshly baked bread, summer berries, citrus, and honey. The palate is medium to full-bodied, generous, and fruit-driven, with nuances of redcurrant, raspberry, ripe grape, and a finishing touch of biscuit and bread 

Food & Wine Pairing

An excellent match for charcuterie, white meats, fish, and seafood, as well as cold buffets and elegant appetizers. Its generosity and finesse make it versatile alongside a range of refined dishes 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip-shaped or sparkling wine glass. This helps reveal its aromatic complexity, fine mousse, and creamy texture 

Storage and Aging Potential

Ready to enjoy on release, Royale Réserve also benefits from further cellaring. Its structure and depth allow for graceful development over several years 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

65% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 5% Pinot Meunier 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12% 

Scores

93 – Vinous (Antonio Galloni)