Discover Champagne AR Lenoble: A Legacy Since 1920

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Discover AR Lenoble, a family-owned Champagne house since 1920, blending tradition with innovation for exquisite wines that embody sustainability and excellence.

The Legacy of AR Lenoble: A Testament to Champagne Excellence

Founded in 1920, AR Lenoble stands as a beacon of quality and innovation in the Champagne region. Nestled in Damery, in the heart of the Marne Valley, this Maison was established by Armand-Raphaël Graser, whose name, it is said, was a marketing strategy born out of necessity following World War I. With German roots that could have hindered acceptance in post-war France, Graser opted for a name that not only evoked nobility but also resonated with the grandeur of Champagne itself.

The house has remained family-owned for generations, culminating in a pivotal transition in 1993 when siblings Anne and Antoine Malassagne took the reins. Their tenure is marked by a commitment to preserving tradition while embracing modernity. Under their stewardship, innovations such as the use of magnums for aging reserve wines have transformed the vinification process at Lenoble. This initiative has led to the creation of their "Mag" line—a range that showcases wines aged in magnum format, allowing for gradual evolution and complexity that is simply unattainable in standard bottles.

As Anne stepped back from active management in spring 2023, Antoine continues to lead as chef de cave and steward of their prized vineyards. This duality of respect for heritage and pursuit of excellence exemplifies what makes AR Lenoble not just another Champagne producer but a vital player in its storied history.

Craftsmanship Meets Sustainability: The Philosophy Behind AR Lenoble

At AR Lenoble, meticulous craftsmanship is not merely an art form; it’s a philosophy deeply embedded within their operations. The estate spans 18 hectares across prestigious vineyards—primarily located in Chouilly (Grand Cru), Bisseuil (Premier Cru), and Damery—where yields are intentionally kept below average levels. This deliberate choice enhances grape quality, allowing for exceptional expressions of terroir in every bottle.

Their commitment to sustainability shines through with the acquisition of the "Haute Valeur Environnementale" certification in 2012—the second house in Champagne to achieve such recognition. This accolade highlights their environmentally friendly practices aimed at fostering biodiversity and reducing ecological impact. As Antoine Malassagne once remarked during an interview: “Sustainability isn’t just about reducing our carbon footprint; it’s about nurturing our land so that future generations can enjoy its bounty.”

AR Lenoble’s approach extends beyond environmental stewardship; they maintain low dosage levels—typically not exceeding 5 grams per liter—in their sparkling wines. This practice enhances the natural characteristics of the grapes while ensuring that each sip reflects purity and authenticity—a hallmark of high-quality Champagne.

A Taste Journey: Exploring AR Lenoble’s Signature Wines

The true essence of AR Lenoble can be experienced through its exquisite range of Champagnes—each bottle telling a story steeped in tradition yet bursting with contemporary flair. Among these gems is Intense Mag 19, an intricate blend featuring equal parts Pinot Noir and Meunier with a touch of Chardonnay. Aged for 36 months on its lees, this wine boasts fresh citrus notes intertwined with floral aromas, presenting a vibrant palate defined by mineral undertones—a testament to its terroir.

Another standout is Brut Nature Mag 18, which elevates sensory experiences through four years on its lees. Its pronounced notes of bread-making on the nose lead into an elegant structure on the palate marked by creamy bubbles and excellent acidity—a favorite among sommeliers who appreciate its versatility with food pairings.

For those seeking elegance personified, Blanc de Blancs Mag 19 Grand Cru showcases pure Chardonnay sourced exclusively from Chouilly’s Grand Cru vineyards. With captivating perlage and complex aromas reminiscent of exotic woods, this wine exhibits remarkable structure and persistence—perfectly suited for celebrations or intimate gatherings alike.

Furthermore, Rosé Terroir Mag 16 offers a delightful fusion between Chardonnay from Chouilly and Pinot Noir from Bisseuil vinified into red wine—a sophisticated expression adorned with alluring onion-skin hues that hints at small red fruit notes alongside mineral accents.

Each bottle from AR Lenoble encapsulates decades of expertise and passion poured into every vintage—a celebration not only of Champagne’s rich history but also its promising future under innovative guardianship. As you explore these offerings, remember: each sip carries within it generations worth savoring!

Photo by Muhammad-Taha Ibrahim on Unsplash