Saint-Réol: A Grand Cru Treasure from the Heart of Ambonnay
Coopérative Vinicole d’Ambonnay
Founded on August 29, 1960, with its first grapes harvested just weeks later, the Coopérative Vinicole d’Ambonnay emerged after a series of meetings and the acquisition of land at Place Barancourt. Officially established on December 9, 1962, the cooperative initially included 26 winegrowers.
Construction of the cooperative's presses began in February 1962, and by October of the same year, under the leadership of President Marcel Remy, the first harvest was processed, drawing grapes from 58 members across 73 hectares.
The cooperative's rapid growth became evident as early as 1963, when the need for storage arose due to a production of 6,000 bottles. In response, members began digging a cellar in 1964, which, after overcoming challenges related to chalk quality, eventually housed the 38,000 bottles of the second vintage.
Expansion continued at a steady pace. A press house was built in 1965, followed by winery enlargement in 1967, and the registration of the "Nectar des Noirs" brand. By 1968, a 2,000-hectoliter winery was in operation.
Under the presidency of Gérard Soutiran, the cooperative joined Union Champagne in 1973. The first 7,900-hectoliter stainless steel vat room was constructed in 1978. For marketing reasons, a new brand, Saint Réol, was registered as the cooperative continued to grow and modernize.
Over the years, the cooperative has undergone significant expansion and modernization. Major investments in equipment, including presses and vat rooms, have enhanced winemaking capabilities. Today, the cooperative boasts a state-of-the-art facility with the capacity to process an average of 240,000 kg of grapes daily, and store over 2.3 million bottles. With a growing membership and a strong brand in Saint-Réol, the cooperative continues to thrive in the Champagne region.
The grapes are allocated as follows: 50% to the wine trade, 35% directly to members, and the remaining 15% for cooperative operations and Union Champagne.
Situated in a prime Grand Cru Noir terroir, the cooperative's success is driven by the collective efforts of its members.
Saint-Réol: Exclusive Grand Cru from Ambonnay
Established in 1962 in the heart of Ambonnay, Saint-Réol Champagnes has grown into a brand shared by over 230 passionate producers. Their dedication has transformed Saint-Réol into a symbol of Grand Cru quality. This prestigious designation of origin has been awarded to only 17 out of 324 Champagne-producing villages.
Members of Saint-Réol are encouraged to work according to HVE methods (Haute Valeur Environnementale), which means there is a strong environmental awareness in the vineyard work
Cédric Jacopin, the cellar master, plays a crucial role in crafting Saint-Réol's unique character. His expertise, combined with innovative technologies, ensures that each Champagne exhibits a remarkable balance of freshness, softness, and complexity.
Saint Reol produces around 80.000 bottles per year keeping its focus on quality, the rest of the production of the cooperative are sold to Champagne houses like Laurent-Perrier, Mumm, Dom Pérignon, Perrier-Jouët, Pol Roger, and Deutz.