Gaston Chiquet - Dizy

The original Nicolas Chiquet planted his first vines in 1746. Since then eight generations have carried on the family tradition. Gaston Chiquet launched his own brand in 1935. They now own 22 hectares covering Dizy, Ay, Mareuil-sur-Ay and Hautvillers. The proportions cultivated are Chardonnay 40%, Pinot Meunier 40% and Pinot Noir 20%. Dizy has a 1er Cru classification with a rating of 95% and has much in common with its neighbouring village Aÿ.  The Chiquets are cousins of the Jacquesson Chiquets just around the corner. The wines show good weight and intensity, and they are proud to use their high quality Pinot Meunier. Having 1er Cru vineyards helps, since it basically means you have access to Pinot Meunier which cannot be grown in Grand Cru designated vineyards! Pinot Meunier is a much maligned variety. Nicolas makes a wonderful 100% Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru from Aÿ which is a masterpiece – but sadly this is only available in small quantities. He also makes a vintage reserve Aÿ Blanc de Blancs, which is only available in magnums!! Now that’s what I call a serious and passionate vigneron!  Nicolas is also a member of the ‘Club Tresors’ and produces a ‘Special Club’ cuvée which is currently the 2000 Vintage. The ‘Club Tresors’ draws inspiration on three guiding principles – authenticity, rigor and originality.

The style here is for precise Champagnes that are accurate of their terroir and grape variety. The wine making does not mask or hide what nature provides.  The entire range is outstanding – even the humble Brut Tradition is an excellent wine – we have a number of restaurants pouring this by the glass.

Michael Edwards in the ‘Finest Wines of Champagne’ says ‘These Champagnes preeminently give the drinker a real sense of place, of the special plots of earth from which they come … the antithesis of a big house’s blend of many parts.’