The region that needs no introduction... it's Champagne time baby!

Two months ago, I was lucky enough to visit Champagne with my lovely colleague Kathy. It was an experience that can only be referred to as a "royal tour" through what just happens to be my absolute favorite wine region. Less than 2 weeks before the start of harvest, we were welcomed in by legendary producers - Famille Moussé, Laherte Freres, J. Lassale - names I remember reading about a decade ago in my early studies, wines I hoped to be able to try one day in my wine career. So to have these names not only show us their vineyards, cellars, and caves, but actually welcome us with open arms like we were old friends was an experience I will never forget. 

The region of Champagne is dominated by large houses (with even larger marketing budgets), but the real gems of this area are the "Grower Producers" - the select few vignerons who are in full control of their product from start to finish. While most Champagne is made in massive quantities using purchased fruit from a sea of farmers, "Grower Producers" make wines exclusively from their own vineyards. These wines make up less than 20% of production and are revered by wine lovers, critics, and sommeliers alike for their superior quality and complexity. These "Farm to Table" winemakers are nothing short of geniuses, all with decades (if not centuries) or generational experience working the same land to create an amazing sparkling for the world to enjoy. If you've never tried Grower Producer Champagne, you are in for a real treat.