The Champagne A. Margaine Cuvée Le Brut NV Magnum is the large-format expression of the flagship wine from this highly regarded grower-producer in Villers-Marmery, a unique Premier Cru village in the Montagne de Reims renowned for its Chardonnay-dominant vineyards. Fifth-generation vigneron Arnaud Margaine crafts this cuvée as the definitive expression of the estate, blending predominantly Chardonnay with a small proportion of Pinot Noir and an exceptionally high percentage of reserve wines. The result is a Champagne that combines freshness, complexity and remarkable consistency while showcasing the chalk-rich terroir of the village.
The nose reveals green apple, pear and white peach layered with lemon zest, white flowers, brioche and toasted almond. The palate is elegant and finely textured, with a creamy mousse, vibrant acidity and a distinct chalky minerality. Notes of citrus, orchard fruits and subtle pastry complexity unfold across a long, refined finish. The current release contains a significant proportion of reserve wines and is bottled at a classic Brut dosage of around 7g/L, providing both depth and balance. Critics have praised its finesse, purity and versatility, with Jeb Dunnuck awarding recent releases 90 points.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb grower Champagne that offers outstanding value and authenticity. The magnum format enhances both freshness and ageing potential, making it ideal for celebrations, larger gatherings or cellaring. Elegant, mineral and beautifully balanced, it pairs wonderfully with oysters, scallops, lobster, sushi, roast chicken and soft cheeses. Drinking beautifully now, but the magnum will continue to evolve gracefully for 8–12 years, developing additional richness and complexity while retaining its signature precision.
