At Steves, we're delighted to introduce a new range to our online store that brings champagne back to its roots: grower champagne. Unlike the large, blended styles of major champagne houses, grower champagnes like those crafted by Agrapart & Fils are produced by small, independent vintners who cultivate their own grapes, vinify them with care, and bottle champagnes that truly reflect their unique terroir.
What Makes Grower Champagne Unique?
Grower champagnes are often described as the soul of Champagne—each bottle tells the story of a specific place and time, with distinct personality and character. These champagnes come from vineyards tended by the same hands that craft the wine, resulting in bottles as unique as the seasons and soils in which they’re grown. For wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike, grower champagne offers an authentic, artisanal experience that differs from the more standardised profiles of larger producers.
The Legacy of Agrapart & Fils
Established in 1894 by Arthur Agrapart, Agrapart & Fils has been a family-run estate for over a century. Arthur's grandson, Pierre, expanded the vineyards in the 1950s and 1960s, laying the groundwork for the house's future success. Today, the fourth generation, led by Pascal Agrapart, continues this legacy with a steadfast commitment to quality and tradition. Pascal, who has been at the helm since 1984, is known for his meticulous attention to detail and passion for expressing the unique characteristics of the Côte des Blancs terroir. His dedication has elevated Agrapart & Fils to one of the finest grower estates in the region.
Why Agrapart & Fils Stands Out
Based in the Côte des Blancs, Agrapart & Fils is renowned for its exquisite Blanc de Blancs champagnes, crafted entirely from Chardonnay grapes. Notably, the majority of Agrapart's vineyards are classified as Grand Cru, the highest designation in Champagne, encompassing prestigious villages such as Avize, Cramant, Oiry, and Oger. This exceptional terroir imparts a distinctive minerality and depth to their champagnes, resulting in wines that are vibrant, precise, and layered with complexity.
Some highlights from our current Agrapart selection include:
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Agrapart 'Minéral' Blanc de Blancs 2014: A stunningly pure expression of Côte des Blancs' chalky soils, with notes of citrus zest, green apple, and a touch of sea spray. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a clean, mineral finish.
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Agrapart 'Terroirs' Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut: As its name suggests, this cuvée is all about the terroir. Blending grapes from different Côte des Blancs villages, it offers a nuanced, balanced profile with a hint of creaminess and a refreshing, crisp finish.
Why Try Grower Champagne?
For anyone looking to deepen their champagne experience, grower champagnes are a fantastic way to explore the diversity and depth of the Champagne region. Agrapart & Fils, with its commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention, offers a true taste of the land. Their champagnes are often lower in dosage (added sugar) than many larger producers, creating a drier, more vibrant style that’s a natural partner for food.
Explore the selection at Steves and take home a bottle of Agrapart & Fils to taste the difference. With grower champagne, you’re not just enjoying a glass of bubbles—you’re experiencing the artistry of Champagne at its most authentic.
