Georges Laval, Champagne 1er Cru AOC Cumieres, Brut Nature

About Georges Laval

Georges Laval is a family-run Champagne estate located in the premier cru village of Cumières, in the Vallée de la Marne. The domaine has deep roots in the region, with the Laval family cultivating vines in Cumières since at least the 18th century. Today, the estate is managed by Vincent Laval, who took over from his father, Georges, in 1996. Under Vincent’s stewardship, the domaine has become a benchmark for organic viticulture and traditional winemaking in Champagne.

The Laval estate covers a mere 2.5 hectares, making it one of the smallest producers in Champagne. The vineyards are planted mostly to Pinot Meunier, with significant holdings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay as well. The vines, some of which are over 70 years old, are tended with meticulous care. The domain has been certified organic since 1971, long before such practices became widespread in the region. Vincent Laval continues this legacy, working the soils by hand and using only natural treatments to preserve the health of the vines and the biodiversity of the land.

Harvest at Georges Laval is conducted entirely by hand, with a focus on picking at optimal maturity to ensure the purity and expressiveness of the fruit. In the cellar, Laval employs a minimalist approach. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts in small, old oak barrels, and the wines undergo malolactic fermentation naturally. Sulfur usage is kept to a minimum, and the wines are neither fined nor filtered. This hands-off philosophy allows each cuvée to reflect the unique terroir of Cumières and the nuances of each vintage.

The estate produces only a handful of wines, all in extremely limited quantities. The flagship Brut Nature Cumières is a blend of the three main Champagne varieties and is celebrated for its precision, minerality, and vibrancy. Laval also produces several single-vineyard cuvées, such as Les Chênes and Les Longues Violes, which showcase the depth and complexity achievable from individual parcels. Each bottle is a testament to the domaine’s commitment to authenticity and terroir expression.

Georges Laval’s Champagnes are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, prized for their energy, purity, and sense of place. The wines are often described as vivid and textural, with a remarkable ability to age gracefully. Despite their cult status, the Lavals remain deeply rooted in their community, working with humility and respect for tradition. The domaine’s unwavering dedication to organic farming and artisanal methods has positioned it as a leading light among the new generation of grower-producers in Champagne.

With a steadfast focus on quality over quantity, Georges Laval continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in Champagne. The estate’s wines offer a compelling glimpse into the distinctive terroir of Cumières and the artistry of one of the region’s most passionate vignerons. For those seeking Champagnes of character, integrity, and soul, Georges Laval stands as a beacon of excellence in the heart of the Vallée de la Marne.