Roger Coulon

Eric Coulon has become a living legend in the La Montagne de Reims region and is a character worth getting acquainted with. From his base in the charming village of Vrigny, he crafts some of the most authentic and complex Champagne available today. He is living proof that great Champagne does not begin and end with the Grande Marques, as anyone who has tasted a bottle of Roger Coulon can testify!

Roger Coulon boasts a history as long as any in the Champagne region; indeed, Eric and his wife Isabelle Coulon represent the eighth generation of the family to be involved in producing quality Champagne. Since 1806, this dynamic family has grown grapes in the La Montage de Reims region, with choice vineyards spread out in the three Premier Cru villages of Vrigny, Coulommes, and Pargny, very close to the historic city of Reims. Coulon’s vineyards and beautiful wine cellar are pristinely maintained, and his continuing success is a result of his monumental hard work in the vineyard and winery. A “terroir is all’ approach is very much at the heart of this outfit, evidenced by Coulon limiting artificial inputs in the vineyard as much as possible. Instead, he practices what he calls ‘reasoned agriculture,’ restricting herbicide and pesticide use, favoring techniques like ‘sexual confusion,’ which helps keep pests away from his precious vines. Moreover, he only uses the finest indigenous yeasts to ferment all his wines. The results are healthier, more balanced vines and superlative, rich Champagne.

Very unusually for a Champagne vigneron, Coulon shows great pride in his old Pinot Meunier vines, which traditionally divided the region. Some growers regard the variety as a poor relation of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. But Coulon has been vindicated with his superb selection of artisan Champagnes, which show the great richness, depth, and terroir-based complexity. And if that wasn’t enough to get excited about, there is also a superb hotel and restaurant next door, where you can sample your way through old vintages over a leisurely lunch. Experience this wonderful Champagne estate on our private, luxury Champagne Tours.