Article: Champagne Eric Rodez
Champagne Eric Rodez
Nestled in the prestigious Grand Cru village of Ambonnay, in the heart of the Montagne de Reims, Champagne Eric Rodez stands as a testament to a long lineage of winemaking and a deep commitment to expressing the unique character of its terroir. The Rodez family has been cultivating vines in this renowned Pinot Noir territory since 1757, with Eric Rodez, representing the eighth generation, taking the helm of the estate and elevating its reputation for crafting complex, artisanal Champagnes.
A Rich History and a Forward-Thinking Philosophy
Eric Rodez's approach to winemaking is deeply influenced by his family's centuries-old connection to the land, yet it is also shaped by his own experiences and a progressive vision. A pivotal period in his career was his time spent at the esteemed Champagne house of Krug, where he honed his skills in the art of blending and the intricate science of vinification. This experience instilled in him a profound appreciation for the role of reserve wines in building complexity and consistency in his cuvées.
Beyond his winemaking prowess, Eric Rodez has also been a prominent figure in his community, having served as the mayor of Ambonnay. This civic engagement underscores his deep-rooted connection to the region and its agricultural heritage.
A cornerstone of the Champagne Eric Rodez philosophy is a steadfast commitment to sustainable and natural viticulture.The estate is cultivated using organic and biodynamic
principles, shunning synthetic pesticides and herbicides in favor of practices that foster biodiversity and soil health. This meticulous attention to the vineyards is a fundamental element in producing grapes that are vibrant, expressive, and a true reflection of their Grand Cru origins.
The Distinctive Styles of Champagne Eric Rodez
The Champagnes of Eric Rodez are celebrated for their depth, structure, and remarkable aging potential. A key element in achieving this signature style is the vinification process, a significant portion of which takes place in oak barrels. This practice, combined with a tendency to block malolactic fermentation, helps to preserve the natural acidity and aromatic purity of the wines, contributing to their freshness and longevity.
The portfolio of Champagne Eric Rodez is diverse, showcasing the versatility of the Ambonnay terroir through a range of meticulously crafted cuvées:
The Cuvée des Crayères is the flagship multi-vintage blend from Eric Rodez and a definitive expression of its origin: the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay. This is a quintessential "Champagne of assemblage" (blending), a craft Rodez famously honed during his tenure at Krug. The wine’s signature complexity comes from two key decisions: vinification and reserve wines. A large portion of the base wine is fermented and aged in small oak barrels, imparting a sophisticated, spicy character and a rich, creamy texture rather than just primary fruit.
This base is then blended with an exceptionally high percentage of reserve wines, often drawn from numerous older vintages. This process adds profound depth, consistency, and layers of toasted brioche, dried fruit, and subtle nutty notes.
Often finished as an Extra Brut with a very low dosage, Cuvée des Crayères masterfully balances its inherent power and richness with a vibrant, chalky acidity—a hallmark of the Rodez style. The result is a deeply "vinous" and gastronomic Champagne, celebrated for its structure, complexity, and significant aging potential. It serves as a compelling bridge between the terroir-driven focus of a grower and the layered, oxidative depth of a top Grande Marque.
