André Clouet / Jean François Clouet
We didn’t find the low house, dating from the 17th century, straight away, even though the village of Bouzy is not very large. Modest buildings are grouped around a courtyard, behind which a vineyard lies, similar to a clos.
But first of all, Jean François Clouet, last scion of this old family that is traceable to the court of Louis XV, guided us to an elevation. We found ourselves above Bouzy on the south side of the Montagne de Reims range of hills. Jean François points westwards: In 451 AD, Attila the Hun came riding from that direction and it was here that he met the army of the Western Roman Empire. But today, instead of a battlefield, a tranquil sea of vines stretches towards the horizon.
The commune of Bouzy enjoys Grand cru status. The best Pinot Noir for champagne production grows here. The Clouet family is the proud owner of eight hectares of outstanding vineyards. Each plot is vinified separately. A portion is fermented and developed in used Sauternes casks from Château Doisy-Daëne, which lends the wines a very special aroma and flavour.
Jean François is self-confident but likeable, and of the opinion that his champagnes are among the best, which the champagne indeed bears out. Well, we’re convinced that with his wines’ unmistakeable character, he is able to supply the water – sorry, champagne – to many a famous name. We would be delighted were he to remain an insider’s tip, and therefore also remain excellent value in terms of price!
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