Potel-Prieux

Potel Prieux is a small family-run Champagne maison, active since 1640 in Venteuil, on the right bank of the Marne. This cru in the Vallé de la Marne is nestled between Epernay, Reims and Hautvillers, three symbolic places of the appellation. Owner Francois Potel runs this winery with full awareness of the great legacy he received from his ancestors, winemakers in Champagne for several generations. The founder of the winery, Charles, lived during the time of King Louis XIV and was a contemporary of Abbot Dom Perignon.

The Potel-Prieux maison includes only 3 hectares of vineyards, cultivated with respect for environmental sustainability. The use of chemicals in the vineyard is reduced to the bare minimum and no herbicides are used, favoring the grassing of the rows and integrated pest management. This is why the vineyards have obtained the French HVE certification, Haute Valeur Environnementale, which testifies to Francois' environmental commitment and his high quality ambition. The region's three typical grape varieties are grown equally: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, which compete in the creation of the various cuvées. Usually the harvest begins in mid-September and extends for about 10 days, carried out by 10 trusted grape pickers. In the winery, the grapes are crushed using a small 20-quint press. Vintage and reserve wines are used to make the cuvées. For the aging of these reserve wines Francois uses a Solera system inaugurated in 1986, fed with 30 percent new wine each vintage. A small part of the production, limited to 1,600 bottles, is instead dedicated to a single vintage cuvée.

Potel-Prieux Champagnes are born from a small production of quality that was born together with the appellation. Some enthusiasts regard them as a true revelation, partly because of the excellent price at which they are offered. Tradition, elegance and great typicity are the qualities that unite the labels produced by the winery, in full Champenoise style.