Rodez Lieux Dits Les Genettes 2012

The Rodez family has been producing champagne for generations, currently owned by the eighth generation, Eric and Martine Rodez. Based in Ambonnay, the family owns 9 hectares of Pinot Nour planted along the south and southeastern facing slopes of the village. In total Eric Rodez cultivates 16 hectares of vineyards, divided between 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay. Vinified entirely in oak for more complexity, the vintage is made from wines that are barrel fermented, without malolactic fermentation.

Weather: The 2012 weather has been hallmarked by many as very challenging but has created some stunning Champagne. Relatively low yields due to various weather conditions throughout the year. The winter months brought some frosts and hail which damaged the early stages of bud burst. August and September were very warm and this helped rescue and give the grapes a stunning maturity. Harvest began on 24th September.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: 100% Grand Cru | Terroir d'Ambonnay; Les Beurys
Grape Varieties: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: 2012
Drink: Now to 2028

Tasting Note: This champagne has a sustained gold color. The powerful nose is marked by red fruits with hints of dried fruit and candied fruit. The palate is powerful and muscular all in balance with freshness.

The Rodez family has been producing champagne for generations since 1757 and is currently owned by the eighth generation, Eric and Martine Rodez. The estate of Chamapgne Rodez is located in the Grand Cru that is Ambonnay, the heart of Pinot Noir country. The family owns 9 hectares of Pinot Nour planted along the south and southeastern facing slopes of the village. In total Eric Rodez cultivates 16 hectares of vineyards, divided between 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay. Today Rodez is cellaring 2.6 years of stock, 52 different wines from 8 different vintages, a veritable treasure house of reserve wines with which to create each cuvée.

Eric Rodez developed his passion for blending when he was working at Krug and now blends between five to ten different vintages to create some cuvées. He was also the Mayor of Ambonnay from 2008 - 2014. Whilst traveling, Eric developed a passion for organic and biodynamic vineyard practices. He does not use any pesticides, fertilizers, or synthetic sprays on his plants. In 2012, Champagne Rodez recieved the Haute Valuer Environmentale certificate, due to the practices of organic and biodynamically farming and water management; Rodez was the first French agricultural domaine to receive the award.

Cellar Master: Eric Rodez
Winery Location: Ambonnay | Champagne, France
Champagne Region: Vallée de la Marne
Annual Production (bottles): 45,000