A Visit to Champagne Gallimard: Meeting Arnaud and Tasting Their Cuvée Réserve & Rosé
During a recent trip to the village of Les Riceys, we had the pleasure of spending time at Champagne Gallimard, a sixth-generation family estate in the southern reaches of Champagne. The visit was made particularly memorable thanks to Arnaud Gallimard, who gave us a tour of their ancient cellars and more modern facilities that have been added by more recent generations.
Les Riceys is a special corner of the Aube, known for its steep slopes, limestone soils, and a microclimate that brings out an unmistakable richness in Pinot Noir. It’s no surprise, then, that Gallimard leans so confidently into this grape, crafting Champagnes that feel both expressive and authentic.
Arnaud is considered one of the most dynamic winemakers of his generation and the family philosophy is one of sustainability in the vineyards and minimal intervention in the cellars. They use a combination of different vessels for fermentation and ageing including oak barrels and clay amphorae, and maintain a Soléra-style reserve system for some of their cuvées — layering different vintages to create depth and continuity. Disgorgement is done by hand and a la volée rather than freezing the neck of the bottle. Another example of the family trying to minimise their impact on the wines.
Cuvée Réserve Blanc de Noirs: Pure Pinot Noir Character
The highlight of the visit was the Cuvée Réserve Blanc de Noirs, Gallimard’s signature expression of Pinot Noir. Crafted entirely from grapes grown on the estate’s limestone-rich slopes, it’s a Champagne that balances generosity with finesse.
Expect bright orchard fruit, a touch of red berry, and a clean mineral line that keeps everything wonderfully poised. It’s simultaneously approachable and quietly complex — the sort of Champagne that works just as well for a celebration as it does for an elegant aperitif. The 100% Pinot Noir also lends an attractive pink hue to the wine.
We’re delighted to offer the Cuvée Réserve in a full range of formats:
- Half bottles £15.99– ideal for gifting or when a glass or two is all you need
- Bottles £32.00 – perfect for the table
- Magnums £70.00 – always the best format for sharing (and ageing)
- Jeroboams £200.00 – for those moments when only something sensational will do!
Champagne Gallimard Cuvée Rosé £38.00
A lively rosé crafted primarily from Pinot Noir with a touch of Chardonnay to add freshness, elegance and to lighten the colour a little. Aromas of ripe summer berries, cherry and wild strawberries lead to a structured palate, balanced by bright acidity and a subtle mineral edge. Expressive, refined, and perfectly reflective of Les Riceys’ unique terroir.