Winegrower Aÿ
Tailor-made
Champagne Collet
The House Collet in Aÿ blends all its talents to make its know-how serve excellence and to develop a 'haute couture' spirit.
The history of Champagne Collet is closely linked with that of Champagne. Its birth certificate dates 1921 but its origins directly go back to the wine growers’ revolt in 1911. In a certain way they carry the values of independence, demand and authenticity of those who fought to defend their lands, their work, their know-how, and to free from the hold as well as the influence of the big trade houses.
Created by a group of wine growers, the House never stopped keeping the spirit that lead all these men to launch this trade brand, to develop its excellence from generation to generation and make of it a kind of symbol. In the route of these winemakers, the role of one of them, Raoul Collet, was crucial. It thus seemed natural to give his name to this brand.
Settled in Aÿ, on a Grand Cru classed terroir, the House Collet met growing power. Its success is the fruit of the work of its 607 members, cosignatories of all its cuvées, their style and their peculiarity. It now relies on a supply capacity of 650 hectares of vines located in the best areas of the Champagne region where the three varietals of the appellation are planted: the Chardonnay which brings fineness and elegance; the Pinot Noir, symbol of structure and generosity; and the Pinot Meunier, revealer of freshness and fruitiness.
The philosophy of the House is to make designer wines. Everything is done at each stage of the making of the Champagne to show this demand.
Haute couture
The Champagne Collet found the resources to meet its ambitions. It develops its markets with the cellarmen and restaurant owners, progresses in export, especially in the United States where the results surpass all expectations. All cuvées are made with care by the cellar master, genuine keeper of the flame, who sees to respect the philosophy shared by the wine growers of this large family.
Collet has to be a happy, festive Champagne, matching the most delicate dishes. The Brut accompanies tender meat like honey and wild berry scented duck fillet; the Brut Grand Art matches seafood or fine fishes. The Rosé will be chosen on the wild strawberry feuillantine and the Blanc de Blancs for a lobster with pear or a selection of sushis and sashimis.
By the way the expression “tailor-made since 1921” is written on the back label of the jewel of the House—the Cuvée “Esprit Couture”. As a tribute to tradition, composed of the best crus, it is produced in limited quantities. Its packaging is reminiscent of frilly evening dress and its bottle, that immediately reminds of a perfume one, is delicately closed with a cross-stitched string and wears a small metal medal.
A beautiful image for this firm which possesses solid, lasting foundations and which intends to be recognized everywhere, and in the first instance in Aÿ, for its true worth. As shown by the renovation of the Villa Collet in 1921. The latter has become an elegant but not ostentatious reception place which history is closely linked with that of the company.
Jean Batilliet
Champagne Collet
14 boulevard Pasteur
51160 AŸ - France
Tél.: +33 (0) 3 26 55 15 88
Fax: +33 (0) 3 26 54 02 40
www.champagne-collet.com
