Why it matters
The producer
Vineyard ownership at Champagne José Michel & Fils dates to 1847. The family is one of the oldest winegrowing families in Moussy. The house works from an artisanal approach to vine growing and winemaking, with cellar practices decided annually.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Moussy is in the Côtes d'Épernay, near Épernay. The Côtes d'Épernay designation identifies the local appellation, while Champagne identifies the wider sparkling wine appellation. In Champagne, the traditional method includes a second fermentation in bottle and ageing on lees, the yeast sediment that can add brioche and pastry notes.
Wines to know
The range in view
Prémices Brut is a nonvintage cuvée made from 70% Meunier and 30% Chardonnay. Clos Saint Jean Blanc de Blancs has a restrained, noble character. Special Club 2014 is the vintage cuvée in the range.
The three bottles occupy different positions: a nonvintage blend, a Blanc de Blancs, and a vintage Special Club. Blanc de Blancs means a sparkling wine made from white grapes, while the Prémices composition brings Meunier and Chardonnay together.