Champagne Martin Fontaine

Champagne Ruppert-Leroy

Ruppert Leroy - Martin Fontaine
Type

Sparkling Wine

Appellation

Champagne

Variety

100% Chardonnay

Martin Fontaine is a steep parcel of Chardonnay planted at the top of the hill with a south/southwestern exposure. The name appears to refer to an old water source at the bottom of the hill that no longer exists. The alternate name “Mort Fontaine” (the dead fountain) has been changed here to the more agreeable Martin Fontaine.   In addition to their vineyards, Ruppert-Leroy operates a biodynamically-certified farm where they grow their own vegetables, raise animals, produce their own composts / biodynamic preparations, and host conferences on biodynamics. 

Viticulture
Vineyard name

Martin-Fontaine, located in the town of Noé-les-Mallets

Soil type

Clay-Limestone with a majority of white limestone

Vine ageEarly 1980s
Vineyard size0.55 hectare
PruningCordon de Royat
ExpositionSouth / Southwest
Vinification

Vinification with natural yeast from their own grapes, without any fining or filtering. The cold settling occurs naturally with the winter frosts. Alcoholic fermentation and levage on fine lees in 225L barrels and 500L demi-muids for 9 months. Natural malolactic fermentation, Aged on the lees in bottle for 18-20 months. Disgorged à la volée, and bottled without any liqueur de tirage (Brut Nature) or added SO2.

Harvest typeHand Harvested
Fining/FilteringUnfined / Unfiltered