Moët & Chandon | 280 Years Of History In The Heart Of Champagne

For over two centuries, Moët & Chandon has crafted a legacy of timeless excellence.  Although the number of bottles produced remains a secret, the property is one of the largest champagne producers.

Champagne Moët & Chandon: A Unique Historical Heritage

Two Centuries of Expertise and Boldness

Founded in 1743 by Claude Moët in Épernay, near Reims, Moët & Chandon swiftly earned renown among Europe's elite. Significant growth began in 1792 when Jean-Rémy Moët, the founder's grandson, expanded the house into an international wine trading powerhouse.

In 1833, the house was renamed Moët & Chandon when Pierre-Gabriel Chandon, the founder's son-in-law, took over the running of the house. This era saw remarkable growth, numerous innovations, the creation of prestigious cuvées, and the expansion into many new markets.

Significant Growth from the 20th Century

The history of Moët & Chandon continued its rise under the direction of Robert Jean de Vogüé, with the acquisition of the illustrious Champagne houses Ruinart in 1962 and Mercier in 1970. The group continued its expansion by acquiring the perfume house Christian Dior, then merging with Hennessy cognacs in 1987 and Louis Vuitton leather goods. This merger gave birth to the LVMH group, which then acquired Moët & Chandon.

For over 250 years, Moët & Chandon has continued writing the history of a prestigious champagne reference that has stood the test of time. Though annual production numbers are kept secret, it is now the largest champagne producer.

A Unique and Cherished Terroir

An Exceptional Terroir Behind an Unmistakable Signature

Located in Épernay, Moët & Chandon's vineyard spans the five main Champagne zones: Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, Vallée de la Marne, Sézanne, and Aube. These exceptional champagnes highlight the richness of the region's main grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, with 50% of the vineyard classified as Grand Cru and 25% as Premier Cru.

The estate benefits from a unique location influenced by both continental and oceanic climates. The continental climate features harsh winter frosts and significant sunshine in summer, while the oceanic climate provides regulated rainfall year-round.

In this varied and hilly landscape, the vines thrive on limestone and chalk soils formed during the Cretaceous period. This unique geological formation, combined with the vineyard's layout, imparts a distinct minerality and aromatic intensity to the champagnes, giving them their signature character.

A Deep Respect for the Terroir and Environment

Since its inception, Moët & Chandon has pursued innovation and excellence. This ambition was evident as early as 1900 with the construction of Fort Chabrol, which housed the first school of viticulture and spearheaded research on grafting techniques to combat phylloxera. Listed as a historical monument since 2012, this iconic site launched the "Natura Nostra" program in November 2021, dedicated to preserving biodiversity in Champagne.

Vinification: A Masterful Craft Behind Each Cuvée

Under the guidance of the renowned Chef de Cave Benoît Gouez, the Moët & Chandon cuvées reveal a superb expression oscillating between richness and elegance. The property uses the traditional Champagne method to vinify its grapes, and thermoregulated stainless steel tanks are employed for vinification.

The Tasting Committee consists of 10 oenologists who taste no less than 822 base wines several times a year. The final say on the blend falls to the Chef de Caves, who acts like a conductor by gathering all the data to achieve the final blend of exceptional cuvées.

Moët & Chandon holds another treasure: a labyrinth of more than 28 kilometers of underground cellars, the largest in Champagne. It is here, several meters underground, that the bottles mature in the dark, developing their aromatic palette over many years of aging.

Rich, elegant and captivating Champagnes

Moët & Chandon captivates consumers worldwide with its distinctive style: bright fruit, a savory, slightly creamy palate, excellent maturity, and great elegance.

In their youth, the bottles reveal aromas of brioche and pastries. Over the years, these evolve into empyreumatic notes, developing into coffee, chocolate, truffle, and undergrowth aromas.

Moët Impérial: An Iconic Name

Iconic cuvée, Moët Impérial is closely associated with the history of the famous house. Indeed, Jean-Rémy Moët was decorated with the Legion of Honor by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, who visited the estate several times and to whom this champagne pays homage. Legend has it that the act of sabering bottles of Moët & Chandon champagne was invented by Napoleon and his troops to celebrate a victory.

Resulting from a blend of over 200 crus, the Moët Impérial cuvée has been accurately blending Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay for nearly 150 years to achieve a perfect balance.

Ice Impérial: Between Boldness and Innovation

Designed to be enjoyed on ice, the Ice Impérial cuvée breaks conventions and offers a refreshing and bold experience through a generous palate and surprising freshness. This innovative cuvée, also available in Rosé, invites you to explore a new way of tasting champagne.

Grand Vintage: The Reflection of an Exceptional Vintage

The Grand Vintage of Moët & Chandon celebrates the expression of a unique vintage. Each Grand Vintage expresses its singularity, reflecting the specific characteristics of its year of creation. Characterized by its complexity, maturity, and consistency, this cuvée results from a rigorous selection of the best grapes. Witness to the house's expertise and heritage, each Grand Vintage Brut or Brut Rosé seduces with its delicate fruity structure, fine effervescence, and the perfect balance between richness and acidity.