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Sparkling dry
Louis Barthélémy Millésime 2016 Brut Saphir reflects both the distinctive climatic character of the 2016 vintage and the overall philosophy of the house: to craft a modern, structured and terroir-driven Champagne.
On the nose, aromas of white stone fruits, citrus zest, pear, and subtle notes of brioche and toasted almonds unfold. On the palate, the wine reveals pronounced minerality, hints of wet chalk, and delicate sea salt nuances. The taste is precise and vibrant, supported by a lively yet perfectly integrated acidity. The finish is long, clean, and elegant.
The wine is made primarily from ‘Chardonnay’ with a small proportion of ‘Pinot Noir’, grown on chalk-rich slopes covered with clay and limestone soils.
The Champagne is produced following the traditional method, interpreted through a modern lens. Fermentation is carried out under controlled conditions to preserve fruit purity. The wine is aged on the lees for six years, allowing its texture, depth, and aromatic complexity to fully develop. Dosage is restrained, in true Brut style.
Extended ageing gives this Champagne structure, complexity, and excellent ageing potential. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared confidently for several more years.
Recommended serving temperature: 8–10 °C. Pair with oysters or seafood tartare, scallops with butter sauce, or aged Comté or Gruyère cheese.
Louis Barthélémy – the Modern Spirit of Champagne
Louis Barthélémy is a Champagne house whose story speaks not only of tradition, but also of perseverance, vision, and the courage to create a distinctive style. Its origins date back to 1923, when Princess Baudry relocated to Épernay and founded a Champagne estate known at the time as Baudry Lebrun & Cie. The property was later taken over by the long-established Lombard family, but its true renaissance began at the start of the 21st century.
In 2002, the house was acquired by the Chancel family, already well known in the Rhône Valley for their estate Château Val Joanis. This marked a turning point. Not only did ownership change, but so did the entire philosophy. The new owner, Jean Barthélémy Chancel, envisioned a Champagne that would speak a contemporary language while remaining deeply rooted in classical craftsmanship. Thus, the name Louis Barthélémy was born — a symbol of respect for heritage combined with a bold creative direction.
The path to recognition in Champagne, however, was far from easy. Unlike other wine regions, vineyards here represent not only land but also a tightly knit and highly selective community. Even an experienced winemaker from another French region is often regarded as an outsider. It took ten years for Jean Barthélémy Chancel to earn the trust of local growers and gain access to top-quality fruit. This achievement came through patience, consistency, and an uncompromising commitment to quality.
Today, Louis Barthélémy Champagnes are crafted from carefully selected grapes sourced from some of the finest sites in Champagne. The winemaking philosophy focuses not on volume, but on precision. Every decision — from vineyard selection to ageing — is made to refine expression and preserve natural balance. There is no reliance on excessive technology or showmanship; the wines are shaped through craftsmanship, restraint, and time.
Stylistically, Louis Barthélémy Champagnes stand out for their energy, clarity, and structure. They are neither heavy nor sweet, yet far from austere. Instead, they combine vibrant acidity, concentrated fruit, and a refined texture. Often described as modern and confident, they nonetheless retain the backbone and elegance of classic Champagne.
Jean Barthélémy Chancel often compares his work to that of a sculptor:
just as form slowly emerges from stone, Champagne is shaped layer by layer, with patience and respect for the material.
This philosophy is evident in every bottle — from the purity of the aromatics to the long, graceful finish that defines the house’s signature style.
