Henriet-Bazin, Montagne de Reims, Verzy, Verzenay, Villers-Marmery

The Domaine is located in the Village of Villers-Marmery on the Eastern side of the Montagne de Reims. Contrary to the predominating Pinot Noir of the Montagne de Reims region as a whole , Villers-Marmery is 1er Cru and planted 98% to Chardonnay. This is because of the finely crushed chalk that rises to the top layer of soil and which is very accessible to the roots. In the vineyards of neighboring villages, Grand Crus Verzy and Verzenay (where the Henriet family also own plots) the chalk is deeper within the subsoil and exists as a mass or in large chunks rather than a crushed and accessible part of the topsoil. Still the vines reach deep here and we are told that the North Eastern exposure favors a profound extraction of the soils mineral influence as the vines work harder to get the nutrients they need. The total holdings of Henriet-Bazin in the three villages amounts to almost 6 Hectares in 37 separate parcels.

Marie-Noelle Henriet- Rainon is the 5th generation of Vigneron having suceeded her Dad, Daniel Henriet who is still a large presence and remains a great source of wisdom at the domain today. The primary fermentations are spontaneous and take place in tank. Malolactic tends to be a decision based on vintage characteristics but full malo is the norm. Blending is Marie Noelle’s art form and the end results are masterpieces. Wines are kept on lees minimum 3 years for the NV and minimum 6 for the Vintage wines. dosage tends to be around 7-8g/l.

The Wines