At the heart of the Montagne de Reims, La Masion Penet is a beacon of modernity and innovation with four centuries of winemaking, exemplified by fourth-generation winemaker Alexandre Penet. An engineer by training, educated at the prestigious Ecole des Arts et Métiers and the University of Chicago, Alexandre’s return to Verzy in 2009 marked a shift from automobile mechanics to oenology. With an oenology degree in hand, he embarked on the mission of preserving tradition while introducing modern precision to the winemaking process. Supported by his wife Martine, Alexandre carries forward the family’s commitment to their 6ha of multi-faceted terroir, crafting champagne that marries tradition with the exacting standards of today. Here he shares some of his innovations, the specificity of his terroir and vision for tomorrow.
Do you remember your first glass of champagne?
No, I have no recollection at all, because it was during my baptism. It is common practice in champagne for the babies to be baptised with the dip of a finger in a glass, and this is what I also did with my two daughters.
Verzy and Verzenay are some of the most known villages of the Montagne de Reims. Can you tell us about the terroir of your vineyards, how they compare to their neighbouring vines, an what makes them so special?
The villages of Verzy and Verzenay neighbouring villages and are often lumped together. Even though there are very similar soil types, Verzenay is North facing so fruit
This Article was originally published on Champagne Every Day
