Ep 214: Before the Bubbles - Vins Clairs with Perrier-Jouët & Mumm

2025-04-14

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Hello wine friends. In this Champagne episode we go behind the bubbles with a rare insider’s look at the still base wines of Champagne—vin clairs. From tasting sessions at iconic houses like Perrier-Jouët and Maison Mumm to exploring the nuances of vineyard pruning and regenerative viticulture, this episode uncorks the raw beauty and complexity of Champagne before it sparkles. Expect wine history, expert insight, and travel tips for planning your own fizz-filled adventure. If you want to skip ahead: 1.00: Travelling to Champ...

Hello wine friends. In this Champagne episode we go behind the bubbles with a rare insider’s look at the still base wines of Champagne—vin clairs. From tasting sessions at iconic houses like Perrier-Jouët and Maison Mumm to exploring the nuances of vineyard pruning and regenerative viticulture, this episode uncorks the raw beauty and complexity of Champagne before it sparkles. Expect wine history, expert insight, and travel tips for planning your own fizz-filled adventure.

If you want to skip ahead:

1.00: Travelling to Champagne from London

1.30: Pronouncing Reims, and the differences between Reims and Épernay

2.30: The four official pruning methods of Champagne

5.45: The history of Champagne

8.50: Tasting Vins Clairs Wines - what are they?

11.45: Maison Perrier-Jouët

14.00: The most interesting Vins Clairs comparing vines planted with cover crops

15.30: Comparing the same Vins Clairs base wine aged in stainless steel and foudre

16.00: Eating at Maison Belle Epoque

17.00: Maison Mumm

19.30: Comparing Chardonnay Vins Clairs to the Pinot Noirs