Maurice Choppin winery
Maison Maurice Choppin is a family-owned Champagne producer rooted in the heart of the Marne Valley, where generations have cultivated a deep respect for the land and its traditions. Established in 1890, the estate is located in Damery, a village known for its picturesque vineyards and ideal terroir. Today, the house is led by Lucile and Benjamin Choppin, who continue the family legacy with a modern vision while honoring time-honored methods.
The Choppin family vineyards cover approximately 6 hectares, primarily planted with Pinot Meunier, which thrives in the clay-limestone soils of the region. This grape variety forms the backbone of Maurice Choppin’s Champagnes, lending them a distinctive fruitiness and roundness. The estate also grows smaller quantities of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which are carefully blended to create balanced and expressive cuvées.
Committed to sustainable viticulture, Maurice Choppin practices environmentally responsible methods, including grassing between rows, limited use of chemical treatments, and promoting biodiversity. The estate has earned the Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) certification, reflecting its dedication to preserving the health of the soil and the surrounding ecosystem.
In the cellar, the Choppin approach is marked by patience and precision. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed to extract the purest juice. Fermentations occur in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, ensuring freshness and clarity of fruit. Some cuvées also benefit from partial vinification in oak barrels, adding complexity and subtle structure. Extended aging on the lees, often surpassing the minimum requirements, imparts depth and finesse to the finished wines.
The Maurice Choppin range includes both classic and innovative expressions. The flagship cuvée, Tradition, showcases the signature style of the house: generous fruit, vibrant acidity, and a creamy mousse. Other notable wines include the Blanc de Meuniers, a pure Meunier Champagne that highlights the grape’s unique character, and the Cuvée Origine, crafted from a single vintage and parcel to express the nuances of a specific terroir. Limited-edition releases and special bottlings further demonstrate the family’s creativity and commitment to excellence.
At the core of Maurice Choppin’s philosophy is a belief in authenticity and the importance of a sense of place. The family takes pride in producing Champagnes that reflect the identity of their vineyards and the craftsmanship passed down through the generations. Visitors to the estate are welcomed into a warm, convivial atmosphere, where they can discover the stories behind each wine and experience the Choppin family’s passion firsthand.
Through a combination of tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the land, Maurice Choppin has established itself as a producer of characterful and elegant Champagnes. The estate’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and the expression of terroir continues to win admirers both in France and internationally, ensuring that the Choppin legacy will endure for years to come.