Beneath the gilded ceilings of a private mansion in Reims, Champagne Jacquart unveiled a preview of its Blanc de Blancs 2018, a colourful tasting led by passionate oenologist Joëlle Weiss and observed by the expert eye of Xavier Thuizat. A portrait of a House that composes its champagnes like a mosaic of talents.
It’s 11 a.m. Like the magnificent mosaic façade near the Hôtel de Ville, the Jacquart mansion sparkles, opening its doors like a theatre before curtain call. In the entrance hall, everything is in harmony: late-19th-century mouldings, bold colours, vibrant furnishings — a scenography that mirrors the spirit of the House.
“Champagne Jacquart is all about openness, dynamism, and a deeply contemporary mindset”, says Joëlle Weiss. With her bright smile and boundless enthusiasm, she welcomes Xavier Thuizat for a distinctive tasting. “I came to see how the mosaic takes shape in the glass”, he says.
In the blending room, a sanctuary where every cru finds its place, the glasses are aligned. Mosaïque Brut first: citrus tension, radiant Chardonnay, a chiselled mouthfeel. “Brilliant, dazzling, very much alive,” enthuses Xavier. Next comes Signature B018, full of promise, still slightly restrained. “It has that texture, that patience for long ageing”, he notes. Then a highlight: Blanc de Blancs 2016 — chalky texture, ripe citrus, saline finish.
“The Italian Riviera,” murmurs Joëlle.
The 2018, revealed as a preview, charms with its softness and generosity. “It’s a lion in a cage, it needs time. Decant it like a great white Burgundy.” The single-vineyard wines of the Triple 1 collection punctuate the exploration. Blind-tasted, Villers-Marmery, Chouilly and Aÿ reveal their true identities. “Each cru is a tessera (a tiny piece of mosaic)”, explains Joëlle. “Our role is to make them vibrate together in a perfectly balanced blend”.
The Jacquart style emerges clearly: Chardonnay-driven, energetic, elegant, and carried by that signature breath of freshness that runs through every cuvée. Champagne in motion, almost like a living rhythm.
As they leave, Joëlle hands Xavier a golden pin, a nod to La Renommée, the winged Greek goddess and emblem of the House. “She brings good news”, Joëlle smiles. And on that day, she certainly did: the 2018 vintage is soon to be released. Jacquart, more vibrant than ever, is leading the dance.
Florence Corbalan
