Why it matters
The producer
Olivier Herbert founded his Champagne house in 2005. Its production philosophy is artisanal, direct and rooted in manual work and an intimate relationship with the vineyard. The house's cuvée list covers several Champagne styles, from Brut and rosé to Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and named bottlings.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Rilly-la-Montagne is the village at the centre of Olivier Herbert's vineyard work, in the Montagne de Reims. The parcels are Premier Cru, a Champagne classification that places them within the region's vineyard hierarchy. In Champagne terms, Rilly-la-Montagne supplies the village address, while Premier Cru names the status of the parcels.
Wines to know
The range in view
The portfolio includes Brut Nature, Brut Original, Brut Intense, Réserve, Brut Rosé, Rosé de Saignée, Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Les Beaux Regards, La Folie Gourmande and Le Millésime 2012.
Brut Nature is a Champagne category made without added dosage after the second fermentation. Rosé de Saignée names a rosé made through skin contact before pressing. Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs identify white Champagne made from white or dark grapes. Le Millésime 2012 is the vintage cuvée in the listed portfolio.