Champagne Minière F&R 'Influence' Cuvée Brut

The Champagne Minière F&R 'Influence' Cuvée Brut is the flagship expression from the Minière family's domaine in Hermonville, a northern village in the Montagne de Reims where four generations have farmed the same parcels. Frédéric and Rodolphe Minière deliberately limit production to their oldest vines across just two hectares of their nearly eight-hectare estate, all sourced within Hermonville's chalky soils. The wine spends seven years aging on its lees in bottle without undergoing malolactic fermentation, a rare commitment that yields extraordinary texture and finesse, and a portion of the blend is aged in barrel before disgorgement. The blend itself is 40% Pinot Meunier, 30% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay, and 15% reserve wines, a composition that reflects the village's fruit-forward character while building in complexity. Frédéric and Rodolphe Minière represent the fourth generation of their family to farm in Hermonville, a village known for generous, textured Champagne anchored by Pinot Meunier. The terroir here is defined by chalk subsoil and a cooler microclimate that preserves acidity even in ripe vintages. The house style centers on extended lees aging and partial barrel fermentation, techniques that add weight and breadth without sacrificing the wine's mineral spine. By sourcing only from their oldest vines and restricting yields, the Minières ensure concentration and depth in every bottle, a philosophy that prioritizes quality over volume and reflects a respect for the land that has sustained their family for more than a century. On the nose, expect discreet oak, delicate yeast, and fruity, piquant Pinot berry notes that follow through beautifully on the palate. The wine opens with a bold, frank attack, revealing citrus aromas, chocolate notes, and a long, lingering finish. The palate is glossy and round, with pear, apple, honey, warm spice, and juicy stone fruit, a richer, fleshier style than many grower Champagnes. This is a wine for lovers of texture and fine bubbles, immediately captivating and built to stand the test of time. Pair it with caviar, lobster, or sushi, or savor it on its own as an aperitif. Champagne Minière F&R 'Influence' Cuvée Brut is available for pickup at our Lincoln Park bottle shop at 1128 W Armitage Ave, local Chicago delivery, or nationwide shipping.