Tarlant

Still very much a family-run operation, this small Champagne house has an incredible lineage that dates back to 1687! They produce roughly 1000 cases a year, and quality, not quantity, is the goal here. And with spectacular results! The wines of Tarlant are a credit to the determination and brilliance of successive generations of the Tarlant family – intense, refined, and incredibly stylish Champagnes. It is a vision that began with the pioneering efforts of Pierre Tarlant, the first winegrower in the Aisne district in Champagne. Subsequently, his son Michel and grandson would continue his work and sow the seeds for a lifetime involvement in Champagne for the Tarlant family.

In 1780, a relative of Pierre, Louis Tarlant, and his wife Marie-Madeleine started growing vines in the district of Oeuilly in the Marne; these would become the ancestors of the vineyards that are cultivated by the Tarlant family today. The reputation of Tarlant spread, and the house prospered. In 1911, the current head of the property, Louis Adrien Tarlant, was instrumental in campaigning for Champagne to be recognized as a world-class appellation and an area of excellence for sparkling wine, which it was in 1927. Sadly, the First World War brought misery to Champagne’s winegrowers, as the conflict devastated their vineyards. Louis left the area to travel worldwide and increase his knowledge of wine-making. On his return, he set about restoring the estate with his wife, Julia. The house once again prospered, and Louis proudly released his first Cuvee Tarlant.

Unfortunately, another World War would return to haunt the Tarlant family, and Louis’s son George was called to serve in the conflict. His wife Germaine worked tirelessly to protect their beloved vineyards from the conflict, and on his safe return, George became the winemaker at the estate. Their son, Jean-Mary, and grandson Benoit have continued their hard work and today produce some of the most respected wines in the region. This dynamic house is a must-see for any visitor to Champagne; the impressive range of wines, the beautiful, historic property, and a warm welcome from the Tarlant family make it the first choice for those on the Champagne pilgrimage. Ask us for details on arranging a visit as part of a longer discovery tour. Santé!