In the heart of Mareuil-sur-Ay, Marc Hebrart exemplifies the pinnacle of Champagne craftsmanship. Since 1963, this family-owned estate has been perfecting the art of creating exquisite bubbles. It has solidified its status as a leading Champagne producer, celebrated for its terroir-driven wines. Marc Hebrart is synonymous with elegance and quality in the realm of fine sparkling wines.
The Premier Cru Selection Brut is the Hebrart family’s crowning achievement. This blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay embodies the essence of Mareuil-sur-Ay’s terroir. Critics have widely praised Marc Hebrart’s Champagnes, with accolades from Wine Advocate, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
Key Takeaways
- Marc Hebrart is a renowned Champagne house in Mareuil-sur-Ay, France
- Established in 1963, it’s a family-owned estate known for artisanal excellence
- The Premier Cru Selection Brut is their flagship wine
- Hebrart’s Champagnes are terroir-driven and highly acclaimed by critics
- The estate focuses on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape varieties
The Legacy of Marc Hebrart
Marc Hebrart’s Champagne legacy began in 1964, marking the start of their winemaking journey. This family tradition is the cornerstone of their exceptional Champagnes. It is deeply rooted in the rich terroir of the Champagne region.
Family Heritage and Tradition
The Hebrart family’s dedication to quality led to their inclusion in the prestigious Club Trésors de Champagne in 1985. This exclusive club, founded in 1971, now comprises 29 members. They are all committed to crafting superior Champagnes from their own vineyards.
Jean-Paul Hebrart’s Leadership Since 1997
Jean-Paul Hebrart took over in 1997, continuing the family’s legacy while introducing innovation to their winemaking. Under his leadership, the estate has grown to encompass 78 parcels across ten villages. This includes Grand Crus and Premier Crus.
Evolution of the Brand Labels
The evolution of Marc Hebrart’s brand is evident in their diverse Champagne offerings. From the ‘Cuvée de Réserve’ 1er Cru Brut to the ‘Noces de Craie’ Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Extra Brut, each label showcases their commitment to quality and innovation. The Special Club cuvée, with its unique green glass bottle and embossed badge, embodies the brand’s pursuit of excellence.
| Cuvée | Composition |
|---|---|
| Cuvée de Réserve 1er Cru Brut | 85% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay |
| Sélection 1er Cru Brut | 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay |
| Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru Brut | 100% Chardonnay |
| Special Club 1er Cru Brut 2020 | 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay |
Prestigious Location in Champagne Region
Marc Hebrart’s winery is nestled in the heart of Champagne’s esteemed Mareuil-sur-Ay territory. This prime location is pivotal in the exceptional quality of their wines. The estate spans vineyards in several prestigious villages, including Ay, Avize, Chouilly, and Oiry.
Mareuil-sur-Ay Territory
Mareuil-sur-Ay is renowned for its ideal grape-growing conditions. The area’s cold continental climate, characteristic of Champagne, is complemented by its unique soil composition. This combination creates an optimal environment for cultivating top-tier Champagne grapes.
Premier Cru Vineyards
Marc Hebrart’s vineyards are classified as Premier Cru, denoting their high-quality grapes. The estate’s vineyards are predominantly planted with 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. This blend is a classic representation of Champagne.
Champagne Terroir Characteristics
The unique Champagne terroir at Marc Hebrart significantly contributes to their wines’ distinctive character. The estate employs sustainable winemaking practices, utilizing organic composts and minimizing synthetic treatments. This approach preserves the terroir’s natural qualities, allowing the true essence of Mareuil-sur-Ay to be showcased in every Marc Hebrart Champagne bottle.
Signature Winemaking Process
Marc Hebrart’s winemaking techniques merge traditional Champagne production with modern artisanal methods. The winery, situated in the premier cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, spans over 80 parcels. Each parcel undergoes separate vinification, enabling precise blending of various cuvées.
Jean-Paul Hébrart, the current winemaker, is dedicated to crafting base wines that reflect the unique terroir. His unwavering commitment to quality is evident throughout the process. The winery’s sustainable land management practices protect their exceptional vineyards, including the rare walled Clos de Léon.
Hébrart’s flagship cuvées, such as Mes Favorites, Spécial Club, and Noces de Craie, highlight the elegance and finesse of Chardonnay, often blended with Pinot Noir. The Marc Hébrart Blanc De Blancs Brut, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, showcases their mastery of varietal expression.
- Sustainable viticulture practices
- Individual parcel vinification
- Precise blending for unique cuvées
- Focus on terroir expression
This meticulous approach to Champagne production yields wines that embody the essence of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. With Jean-Paul’s son studying winemaking, the future of Marc Hebrart’s artisanal methods appears promising. This ensures the continuation of their family’s winemaking legacy.
Premier Cru Selection Brut: A Flagship Wine
Marc Hebrart’s Premier Cru Selection Brut is the pinnacle of their champagne collection. It embodies the essence of Mareuil-sur-Ay’s terroir, highlighting the region’s capability to produce wines of unparalleled quality.
Blend Composition
The Premier Cru Selection Brut is a harmonious blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. This synergy brings out the finest attributes of both grapes, resulting in a champagne of profound depth and complexity.
Tasting Profile
Connoisseurs will find the tasting notes of this champagne truly captivating. The Premier Cru Selection Brut presents a bouquet of pear and white peach aromas, accompanied by subtle hints of spring flowers and zesty lemon oil. Its crisp acidity and balanced structure ensure a memorable tasting experience.
Aging Potential
The Premier Cru Selection Brut showcases remarkable aging potential. Enthusiasts can store this champagne for 8 to 10 years, allowing its flavors to mature and gain additional complexity. Proper storage in a cool, dark environment is crucial for optimal maturation.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Blend | 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay |
| Aroma | Pear, white peach, spring flowers, lemon oil |
| Aging Potential | 8-10 years |
| Wine Advocate Score | 92+ points |
| Wine Spectator Score | 92 points |
The Celebrated Rosé Collection
Marc Hebrart Rosé is a standout in the Champagne rosé world. It embodies the pinnacle of winemaking, with a distinct flavor profile and consistent quality across vintages.
Distinctive Flavor Profile
The Marc Hebrart Rosé presents a vibrant taste experience. It is celebrated for its intense citrus notes, spicy white pepper undertones, and delightful cherry flavors. This Champagne rosé strikes a perfect balance between fruitiness and complexity.
Critical Acclaim and Ratings
Critics widely acclaim Marc Hebrart Rosé. Its outstanding quality has garnered high ratings from respected wine publications:
| Publication | Rating |
|---|---|
| Wine Advocate | 92 points |
| Wine & Spirits | 91 points |
| Decanter | 90 points |
Vintage Variations
Each vintage of Marc Hebrart Rosé highlights the unique traits of its base year. Recent vintages include 2016, 2017, and 2018. The blend is typically 50% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, with 7% barrel-fermented red wine adding depth and color. This blend ensures a consistent taste while showcasing subtle vintage variations.
Wine enthusiasts can purchase Marc Hebrart Rosé at $51.30 per bottle, with a minimum order of 12 bottles. Its low dosage of 7 grams per liter guarantees a crisp, refreshing taste, as expected from this renowned Champagne house.
Special Club Cuvée Excellence
Marc Hebrart’s Special Club Champagne is a testament to their expertise. This Cuvée Excellence is the estate’s finest, featuring exceptional grapes and advanced winemaking. Since 1985, Jean-Paul Hébrart has been a part of the Special Club, enhancing the brand’s prestige with this rare gem.
The 2016 Marc Hebrart “Special Club Millesime” Champagne Brut is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. This blend creates a perfect balance of power and elegance. The grapes come from 65 different sites across 14 hectares, including premier cru vineyards in Mareuil-sur-Ay and grand cru villages in the Côte des Blancs.
Hébrart’s dedication to quality is evident in every step of production. From manual grape selection to fermentation in petite cuvee and manual remuage, no detail is overlooked. The winery’s use of barrel fermentation and indigenous yeast adds depth and complexity to this limited production Champagne.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Blend | 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay |
| Vineyards | Premier Cru and Grand Cru sites |
| Production | 265 cases imported |
| Wine Spectator Rating | 93 points |
| Drinking Window | Now through 2033 |
The Cuvée Excellence offers a sensory journey with notes of ripe cherry, Gala apple, and candied ginger. Its fresh, minerally profile is complemented by hints of toast, oyster shell, and white flowers. This Special Club Champagne pairs beautifully with roast chicken or oysters Rockefeller, making it a versatile choice for fine dining experiences.
Awards and Recognition
Marc Hebrart’s champagnes have garnered widespread acclaim in the wine world. These sparkling wines consistently receive high wine ratings from respected critics. This solidifies the brand’s reputation for excellence.
Wine Advocate Ratings
The Wine Advocate has bestowed impressive scores on Marc Hebrart’s offerings. Their Premier Cru Selection Brut received a remarkable 92+ points. Critics praised its depth and purity. This places Marc Hebrart among the top-tier Champagne producers.
Vinous Media Reviews
Vinous Media, another respected voice in wine criticism, awarded Marc Hebrart’s Premier Cru Selection Brut 91 points. The review highlighted the champagne’s exceptional balance and sensuality. This further cements its status in the world of fine sparkling wines.
Wine Spectator Accolades
Wine Spectator, a leading publication for wine enthusiasts, awarded Marc Hebrart’s Premier Cru Selection Brut an impressive 92 points. The critic reviews emphasized its sleek profile and well-knit flavors. This adds to the champagne’s list of accolades.
| Publication | Rating | Key Praise |
|---|---|---|
| Wine Advocate | 92+ points | Depth and purity |
| Vinous Media | 91 points | Balance and sensuality |
| Wine Spectator | 92 points | Sleek profile, well-knit flavors |
These Champagne awards underscore Marc Hebrart’s commitment to crafting exceptional sparkling wines. The consistent high scores across multiple respected publications demonstrate the brand’s ability to produce champagnes that captivate critics and wine lovers alike.
Visiting Marc Hebrart
Marc Hebrart, a renowned Champagne house established in 1964, invites wine aficionados to discover its storied past and refined offerings. Spanning 15.5 hectares across 75 parcels in various villages, the estate offers a genuine look into the art of Champagne production.
Tasting Room Experience
The tasting room at Marc Hebrart presents a unique chance to taste their annual output of 110,000 bottles. Guests can indulge in the Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru, a combination of 80% Chardonnay from Mareuil sur Ay, along with contributions from Oiry and Chouilly. The Brut Selection, a 70/30 blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, embodies the estate’s distinctive character.
Tour Options
Champagne tours at Marc Hebrart unveil the intricacies of their winemaking craft. Visitors can explore the 70 meticulously tended plots and gain insight into the creation of their fresh, precise, and fruit-forward Champagnes. The winery tours also highlight special cuvées, such as the Rive Gauche – Rich Droite and the unique Noce de Craie Blanc de Noirs.
Booking Information
To book tasting experiences at Marc Hebrart, interested individuals should reach out to the estate directly. Tours include tastings of their celebrated vintages, including the Special Club Champagne, renowned for its honeyed complexity. Enquiries about the upcoming release of Clos le Leon, sourced from a walled vineyard in Dizy, are also welcome.
Global Distribution and Availability
Marc Hebrart’s champagnes have made a significant impact in international markets. The estate’s dedication to quality and showcasing unique terroir has driven its export strategy. These exquisite bottles can be found in select wine shops and upscale restaurants globally.
The U.S. leads in both volume and value for Champagne exports. This trend highlights the growing interest in grower-producer labels, with a 15% increase in U.S. imports since 2018. Marc Hebrart’s wines are at the forefront of this trend, captivating American palates with their distinct profiles.
Wine distribution channels differ across regions. In Tucson, Arizona, Tap & Bottle sees strong demand for sparkling wines, attributing it to the hot, desert climate. BottlesUp! in Chicago offers grower Champagnes at accessible prices. Cadet in Napa, California, celebrates Champagne as its top-selling category.
| Location | Featured Champagne | Price |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | Ruppert Leroy ‘Fosse Grely’ Brut Nature NV | $175 |
| Phoenix, Arizona | Jeaunaux-Robin ‘Éclats de Meulière’ Extra Brut NV | $180 |
| Atlanta, Georgia | Philippe Fontaine Grower Champagne | Varies |
Marc Hebrart’s wines, including the celebrated Spécial Club Millésimé Premier Cru, priced at £45 per bottle, are making waves in these diverse markets. The estate’s focus on terroir-driven production and limited quantities enhances their appeal among discerning consumers seeking authentic Champagne experiences.
Conclusion
Marc Hebrart’s legacy in Champagne excellence is evident through its artisanal production. The ‘Rive Gauche-Rive Droite’ Grand Cru Brut, a blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay, exemplifies the house’s dedication to quality. This champagne, aged for 72 months on lees with a dosage of 3g/L, has garnered acclaim. It scored 95 points from Wine Advocate and 94 from Jeb Dunnuck.
Jean-Claude Hébrart’s expertise in managing 17 hectares of vineyards across 80 parcels in 11 villages has led to the creation of remarkable champagnes. The NV Brut Premier Cru Sélection, a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, has consistently received ratings between 90 and 94 points from top wine critics. This champagne embodies the Marc Hebrart legacy, offering rich textures and ample appeal.
The house’s commitment to artisanal production is evident in their use of grapes from 50+ year-old vines, resulting in champagnes with notable texture and sheer appeal. With prices ranging from $47.12 per bottle to $565.44 per case, Marc Hebrart offers exceptional value for Champagne enthusiasts. The consistent high ratings from respected publications like Wine Advocate, Wine & Spirits, and Vinous Media further cement Marc Hebrart’s position as a premier Champagne house dedicated to excellence.
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