When it comes to Champagne, the La Revue du Vin de France (RVF) has once again set the benchmark with their 2024 ranking of the 50 best Champagne houses. This list celebrates not only timeless legends but also innovative producers who are redefining the Champagne experience. Whether you’re a collector, connoisseur, or simply a lover of bubbles, here’s everything you need to know.
🥇 The Top 10 Champagne Houses for 2024
- Krug – The new leader. Krug now leads the ranking, celebrated for the harmony and depth of its champagnes, particularly the Grande Cuvée, which benefits from a vast array of reserve wines.
- Louis Roederer – Previously ranked 1st, Roederer maintains a strong position, with its Cristal 2016 receiving near-perfect scores, underscoring the house's consistent quality.
- Jacquesson – Advancing from 6th to 3rd, Jacquesson is recognised for its precision and the regularity of its wines, solidifying its esteemed status.
- Bollinger – Holding steady in the top tier, Bollinger is lauded for its delivering consistent, vinous, and full-bodied champagnes. character and the consistency of its range, from non-vintage bruts to prestige cuvées. Delivering consistent, and full-bodied champagnes.
- Philipponnat – Making a remarkable leap from 13th to 5th, Philipponnat is noted for its dynamic performance and the distinctive style of its champagnes.
- Salon – Known for its singular focus on vintage blanc de blancs, Salon continues to impress with its exceptional quality.
- Dom Pérignon – The iconic house is a standard-bearer for complex, vintage-only champagnes, offering depth and complexity.
- Gosset – As the oldest wine house in Champagne, Gosset is celebrated for its traditional methods and expressive wines.
- Billecart-Salmon – Renowned for its finesse and elegance, Billecart-Salmon consistently delivers high-quality champagnes.
- Charles Heidsieck – Recognised for its rich and mature style, Charles Heidsieck continues to garner acclaim.
🍾 Rising Stars and New Entrants
The rankings reveal that Champagne is more dynamic than ever, with fresh names making waves: These entries exemplify the dynamic nature of the Champagne industry, where innovation and tradition coexist.
- Fleur de Miraval (#15) – A collaboration by the Perrin family and Brad Pitt, bringing luxury and innovation to rosé Champagne.
- Leclerc-Briant (#16) – A historic house brought back to life since its acquisition in 2012, now recognised for its bold vision and biodynamic practices.
✨ What Makes These Houses Stand Out?
The La Revue du Vin de France (RVF) ranking evaluates Champagne houses based on several key factors to ensure a comprehensive assessment of their performance and offerings. These include:
1. Consistency and Homogeneity
- The ability of a Champagne house to maintain high quality across its entire range, from non-vintage bruts to prestige cuvées.
- Regularity in delivering wines that meet the house's signature style and standard, irrespective of the vintage.
2. Expression of Terroir
- How well the house captures and expresses the unique characteristics of its vineyards.
- A focus on showcasing the Champagne region’s diversity and identity through their wines.
3. Adaptation to Vintages
- The ability to adapt winemaking processes to the specific challenges and opportunities of each vintage.
- Crafting exceptional champagnes that reflect the vintage’s distinct qualities while maintaining house consistency.
4. Craftsmanship and Innovation
- Precision in blending, aging, and other winemaking techniques.
- Incorporating innovative practices or reinterpreting traditional methods to refine or elevate quality.
5. Prestige and Reputation
- The house’s historical significance and contribution to Champagne's global renown.
- Endorsements, critical acclaim, and consumer recognition play roles here.
6. Depth and Complexity
- The richness, balance, and complexity of the champagnes, particularly in flagship or prestige offerings.
- Elegance, finesse, and a harmony of flavours across the portfolio.
7. Vision and Sustainability
- Commitment to long-term excellence through sustainable viticulture and environmentally responsible practices.
- Ethical considerations in vineyard management and winemaking processes.
RVF’s evaluation criteria reflect what sets the Champagne elite apart.
🏆 The Complete Top 50 Champagne Houses
- Krug
- Louis Roederer
- Jacquesson
- Bollinger
- Philipponnat
- Salon
- Dom Pérignon
- Gosset
- Billecart-Salmon
- Charles Heidsieck
- Henri Giraud
- Deutz
- Pol Roger
- AR Lenoble
- Fleur de Miraval
- Leclerc-Briant
- Drappier
- Ruinart
- Taittinger
- Bruno Paillard
- Rare
- Moët & Chandon
- Joseph Perrier
- Laurent-Perrier
- Piper-Heidsieck
- Veuve Clicquot
- Lallier
- Brice
- Mailly Grand Cru
- Alfred Gratien
- Ayala
- Duval-Leroy
- Delamotte
- Perrier-Jouët
- Palmer & Co
- Devaux
- Jacquart
- Saint-Gall
- Barons de Rothschild
- De Venoge
- G.H. Mumm
- Thiénot
- Pommery
- Moutard
- Lanson
- Henriot
- Nicolas Feuillatte
- Cattier
- Boizel
- Abelé 1757
🍇 A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
What makes Champagne so special is its ability to celebrate tradition while embracing evolution. Whether it’s the century-old mastery of houses like Gosset or the contemporary ingenuity of newcomers like Fleur de Miraval, there’s a place for every style, palate, and story.
If you’re looking to explore the best bubbles, this list is your perfect guide to discovering the finest Champagne houses of 2024.
Cheers to timeless excellence and exciting new horizons in Champagne! 🥂
Emperor Champagne is Australia’s premier destination for all things Champagne, offering unparalleled access to the world’s finest bubbles. As the country’s first and only Champagne-dedicated retailer and club, Emperor curates a diverse portfolio, from iconic maisons to boutique growers, ensuring Champagne lovers can explore both timeless classics and hidden gems. With expert-led tastings, exclusive events, and a focus on education, Emperor Champagne is more than just a retailer—it’s a community that celebrates the art, heritage, and joy of Champagne. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just beginning your Champagne journey, Emperor Champagne is the ultimate home of Champagne in Australia. 🥂