Step into the world of luxury sparkling wine with Francois Dubois, a gem in the heart of France’s Champagne region. This prestigious winery crafts exquisite French champagne that embodies centuries of tradition and modern sophistication.
Francois Dubois offers a range of 28 wines, each telling a unique story of the terroir. Their Excellence Brut Champagne, a perfect blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, stands out as a testament to their commitment to quality. With an alcohol content of 12%, this champagne strikes a delicate balance between strength and finesse.
Wine enthusiasts worldwide have taken notice of Dubois Champagne. On Vivino, a popular wine rating platform, Francois Dubois wines boast an impressive average rating of 3.8 based on over 3,000 reviews. This recognition speaks volumes about the consistent quality and appeal of their sparkling creations.
Key Takeaways
- Francois Dubois is located in the renowned Champagne region of France
- Their Excellence Brut Champagne blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes
- Dubois Champagne has an alcohol content of 12%
- The winery offers 28 different wines
- Francois Dubois wines have an average rating of 3.8 on Vivino
- Over 3,100 ratings contribute to their online reputation
The Heritage of Francois Dubois Winery
The Francois Dubois Winery is a beacon of Champagne history and French wine tradition. Established in 1765, it has been a vital part of the Reims vineyards for centuries. This winery’s legacy is a testament to the enduring influence of French viticulture.
A Legacy in Champagne Region
Francois Dubois, born in 1764, founded a champagne business that has thrived for generations. The winery’s expansion reflects the region’s deep-rooted viticultural heritage, tracing back to Roman times.
Historical Significance Since Roman Times
The wine history of the Champagne region began in the 5th century with the establishment of Roman vineyards in Reims. By the 18th century, Reims and Epernay were at the forefront of the wine trade. Dubois et Fils emerged as a pivotal player in 1765, marking a significant milestone in the region’s winemaking tradition.
Modern-Day Excellence
In 2007, Francois Dubois Winery reached new heights, pressing 110 hectares of grapes to produce 1,000,000 bottles. By 2011, this number had doubled to 200 hectares, resulting in 5,070,000 bottles. The winery’s dedication to quality and sustainability is underscored by its 2013 IFS-BRC certification and 2016 HEV certification for Sustainable Viticulture practices.
Year | Hectares Pressed | Bottles Produced | Achievements |
---|---|---|---|
2007 | 110 | 1,000,000 | – |
2011 | 200 | 5,070,000 | – |
2013 | – | – | IFS-BRC Certification |
2016 | – | – | HEV Certification |
Understanding Dubois Champagne Composition
Dubois Champagne is a quintessential representation of French winemaking tradition. It is crafted from a unique blend of Champagne grapes, embodying the essence of the region. This blend creates a sparkling wine that captures the spirit of French winemaking.
Classic Grape Varieties
Dubois Champagne employs three classic grape varieties in its sparkling wine production. The Brut “Cuvée de Réserve” showcases this blend:
- 1/3 Pinot Noir
- 1/3 Pinot Meunier
- 1/3 Chardonnay
The Pink Brut Champagne, on the other hand, features a distinct composition:
- 35% Pinot Meunier
- 30% Pinot Noir
- 20% Chardonnay
- 15% Wine AOC Coteaux Champenois
Alcohol Content and Profile
Dubois Champagne typically boasts an alcohol content of 12%. It contains sulfites, which are essential for preserving its quality and flavor. Each grape variety contributes a unique profile, ranging from the crisp Blanc de Blancs to the rich Blanc de Noirs.
Production Methods
Dubois adheres to traditional Champagne methods in its sparkling wine production. They strictly follow the regulations of the Champagne appellation, ensuring quality and authenticity. The winery employs various techniques, including:
- Cold disgorging to minimize wine and pressure loss
- Specific dosage for each variety (e.g., 60 gr/L for Blanc de Noirs)
- Aging in oak barrels for select vintages
Champagne Type | Grape Composition | Special Features |
---|---|---|
Grande Réserve Millésime | 50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay | 25% matured in oak barrels |
Blanc de Blancs | 100% Chardonnay | From Ardre Valley lands |
Blanc de Noirs | 100% Pinot Noir | From 30-year-old vines |
The Distinctive Terroir of Champagne
The Champagne appellation is distinguished among French wine regions by its unique soil composition. Spanning 30,000 hectares across 320 villages, it is the cradle of world-class sparkling wines. At its core lies the Côte des Blancs, a domain of Dubois Champagne and five Grand Cru villages.
Avize, the home of Dubois Champagne, is celebrated for its nearly 262 hectares of prime terroir. The Hervé Dubois estate cultivates 6.5 hectares of vines, with 3.50 hectares dedicated to Chardonnay Grand Cru in the Côte des Blancs. This area is celebrated for its exceptional Chardonnay grapes, essential to Dubois Champagne’s unique character.
The estate’s dedication to quality transcends mere location. It employs integrated viticulture, minimizing inputs and nurturing the soil to maintain its unique essence. This method, coupled with the region’s chalk-rich subsoil and cool climate, fosters the growth of premium grapes.
Grape Variety | Hectares | Location |
---|---|---|
Chardonnay Grand Cru | 3.50 | Côte des Blancs |
Chardonnay Premier Cru | 0.50 | Reims Mountain |
Pinot Meunier | 1.50 | Marne Valley |
Pinot Noir | 1.00 | Marne Valley |
The oldest vines at Dubois Champagne are 70 years old, yielding grapes of unparalleled quality. This synergy of ancient vines and diverse terroir underpins the complex flavors and aromas of Dubois Champagne. It embodies the essence of its Champagne origins, setting it apart.
Dubois Champagne Collection Overview
Dubois Champagne presents a diverse array of sparkling wines, highlighting the pinnacle of Champagne varieties. Their dedication to quality is evident in their product range, spanning from their flagship brut to vintage and limited edition selections.
Excellence Brut Champagne
The Henri Dubois Brut Champagne Collection stands as the foundation of their offerings. This exquisite blend, crafted from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes, achieves a perfect harmony of flavors. It boasts a dry sweetness profile, moderate alcohol content, and a lively acidity, as noted by expert ratings.
Vintage Selections
Dubois is renowned for its vintage champagne, which embodies the essence of exceptional harvest years. These selections are a testament to the unique terroir and climate conditions of specific vintages, offering connoisseurs a glimpse into Champagne’s storied past.
Limited Editions
For those in pursuit of rare and exclusive experiences, Dubois offers limited edition sparkling wines. These special releases exemplify innovative blending techniques and underscore the winery’s dedication to redefining traditional Champagne production.
Collection | Grapes Used | Characteristics |
---|---|---|
Excellence Brut | Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier | Dry, Moderate alcohol, Vibrant acidity |
Vintage Selections | Varies by year | Reflects specific harvest conditions |
Limited Editions | Unique blends | Rare, Innovative, Exclusive |
Dubois Champagne’s collection appeals to a broad spectrum of wine enthusiasts, from casual drinkers to discerning collectors. With their growing presence in North America, Europe, and Oceania, wine aficionados globally can indulge in the exquisite flavors of these French sparkling wines.
Perfect Food Pairings with Dubois Champagne
Dubois Champagne elevates any dining experience with its versatile sparkling wine gastronomy. Let’s explore some exquisite Champagne food pairings that bring out the best in both the bubbly and your meal.
Seafood Combinations
Seafood and Champagne create a match made in culinary heaven. The crisp acidity of Dubois Champagne cuts through the richness of fish, enhancing its delicate flavors.
- Pair grilled salmon with Rosé Champagne for a perfect balance of caramelized flavors and crisp acidity
- Try smoked salmon with Brut Champagne for a classic combination
- Complement shellfish or scallops with Blanc de Blancs Champagne
Meat Pairings
Dubois Champagne isn’t just for seafood. It pairs wonderfully with various meats, adding sophistication to your meal.
- Enjoy roasted chicken with a Vintage Champagne
- Pair duck breast with a Blanc de Noirs for a rich flavor profile
- Try ham or pork dishes with a Non-Vintage Brut Champagne
Cheese Selection
Wine and cheese are a timeless duo, and Dubois Champagne offers exciting possibilities for cheese lovers.
- Pair creamy Brie with Brut Champagne
- Enjoy aged Parmesan with a Vintage Champagne
- Try goat cheese with Blanc de Blancs for a refreshing combination
Experiment with these Champagne food pairings to discover your favorite combinations. Dubois Champagne’s versatility in sparkling wine gastronomy ensures a delightful experience for every palate.
Global Recognition and Ratings
Francois Dubois wines have garnered international acclaim for their outstanding quality. Wine aficionados globally extol these Champagnes, evident in their high Vivino scores. Each bottle embodies the winery’s unwavering commitment to excellence, attracting both critics and connoisseurs.
The Champagne ratings for Francois Dubois underscore its prestige among elite producers. With an average Vivino score of 3.8 from over 3,000 ratings, these sparkling wines consistently captivate. This accolade positions Francois Dubois alongside venerated Champagne houses, such as Louis Roederer, celebrated for its sustainable ethos and innovative methods.
Wine awards further solidify Francois Dubois’ stature. In competitions like Chardonnay du Monde, where 579 wines from 32 countries vie, French Champagnes frequently excel. Judges assess based on quality, typicity, and aromatic complexity, domains where Francois Dubois excels.
Criteria | Francois Dubois Performance |
---|---|
Average Vivino Score | 3.8 |
Number of Ratings | 3,106 |
Key Attributes | Balance, Classic Brioche Notes, Soft Fruit Flavors |
Price Range | $54.96 – $626.54 (case) |
These accolades underscore Francois Dubois’ relentless pursuit of crafting exceptional Champagnes. Their consistent high ratings and global competition recognition affirm their status as a leading Champagne producer.
Tasting Notes and Characteristics
Dubois Champagne presents a sensory journey that captivates wine enthusiasts. Let’s explore the Champagne tasting notes that make this sparkling wine stand out.
Visual Appearance
In the glass, Dubois Champagne sparkles with a golden hue. Tiny bubbles dance upward, forming a delicate mousse at the surface. This effervescence is a hallmark of fine sparkling wine characteristics.
Aroma Profile
The nose reveals a complex bouquet. Hints of green apple and citrus mingle with subtle notes of brioche and toasted almonds. This intricate aroma is a key part of the wine flavor profile, inviting you to take that first sip.
Taste Experience
On the palate, Dubois Champagne delivers a harmonious blend of flavors. Crisp acidity balances perfectly with ripe fruit notes. A creamy texture and lingering finish round out the tasting experience. These elements combine to create a champagne that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
The Excellence Brut, a standout in the Dubois collection, exemplifies these qualities. Its balanced flavor profile and elegant bubbles showcase the best of French Champagne craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to sparkling wines, Dubois offers a tasting adventure worth savoring.
Serving and Storage Recommendations
Proper storage and serving are crucial for enjoying Dubois Champagne at its peak. We will discuss vital wine storage tips and the perfect Champagne serving temperature. This will help your bubbly retain its exquisite quality.
To preserve sparkling wine, store your Dubois Champagne bottles horizontally in a cool, dark location. The ideal storage temperature is between 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C). This method keeps the cork moist, preventing oxidation and preserving the wine’s effervescence.
When serving, chill your Champagne to the ideal temperature. Aim for 45°F (7°C) for non-vintage varieties and slightly warmer at 50°F (10°C) for vintage selections. Avoid rapid temperature changes, as they can impact the wine’s delicate flavors.
- Use an ice bucket filled with ice and water to chill your Champagne quickly
- Refrigerate the bottle for about 3 hours before serving
- Avoid freezing Champagne, as it can alter the taste and texture
Remember, excessive heat can damage Champagne’s quality. Never leave bottles in a hot car or under direct sunlight. This can cause unwanted changes in taste and aroma. By adhering to these serving and storage guidelines, every glass of Dubois Champagne will be a delightful experience.
International Shipping and Availability
Dubois Champagne extends French wine excellence globally through its extensive Champagne export services. This commitment ensures that wine aficionados worldwide can enjoy their premium sparkling wines, regardless of their location.
Export Services
The Francoise Dubois Winery delivers bespoke international wine shipping solutions. Their export team oversees every step of overseas transport, guaranteeing each bottle’s safe arrival.
Ordering Process
Ordering custom wines is both easy and direct. Customers can explore the Dubois collection online, choose their desired Champagnes, and complete their purchase. The winery’s platform offers various shipping and payment options, catering to all preferences.
Custom Quotations
Dubois offers personalized quotes for large orders or unique requests. This service is designed for both individual collectors and businesses looking to import Dubois Champagnes. Prices are determined by factors like quantity, destination, and specific products chosen.
Product | Volume | Price | Alcohol Content |
---|---|---|---|
Dubois Caron Brut Champagne | 75cl | Contact for quote | 12% |
Haig Club Single Grain Whisky | 70cl | £44.97 | 40% |
Chivas Regal 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky | 70cl | £25.99 | 40% |
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Whisky | 70cl | £159.95 | 40% |
Conclusion
Francois Dubois Champagne epitomizes luxury French Champagne, showcasing a rich history and unwavering commitment to excellence. This Dubois sparkling wine offers an unparalleled Champagne experience. The winery’s dedication to quality is evident in its meticulous cultivation of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, and Pinot Noir grapes across six hectares of prime vineyards.
The unique terroir of the Champagne region, combined with Dubois’ expert winemaking techniques, results in a collection of sparkling wines. These wines are characterized by their ample autolysis, finely balanced acidity, and remarkable aging potential. This makes them a favorite among Champagne enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in life’s finer pleasures, Dubois Champagne delivers an unparalleled experience. From its crisp, refreshing bruts to its complex vintage selections, each bottle of Dubois sparkling wine promises a journey through the best of French winemaking tradition. Embrace the luxury and savor the excellence that is Francois Dubois Champagne.