Champagne Barbier-Roze, historic Verzenay estate

Maison Barbier-Roze is located in Verzenay, the flagship Grand Cru of the Montagne de Reims. This iconic terroir is renowned for the quality of its Pinot Noir grapes, which thrive beautifully in the region's calcareous soils. Many of the greatest Champagne houses often dedicate a special cuvée to highlight this prestigious Grand Cru.

Available directly from the estate on Avenue des Vins.

What is the history of the estate?

A Storied Estate

Maison Barbier-Roze is one of the oldest winemaking families in Verzenay. The family has been cultivating these vines for two and a half centuries, and Benoît's great-great-grandfather was one of the first to own his own press and market his own Champagne as early as 1890! For the record, this first press was destroyed during World War I, but the family still retains the original labels. Today, Benoît, representing the 5th generation, continues the family tradition while bringing a fresh perspective to viticulture methods.

How does Benoît work the vines?

A Committed Winemaker

In 2015, Benoît took over with the primary ambition of revitalizing the range by creating two new cuvées ("Réserve" and "Réserve Zéro") and transitioning to more environmentally friendly viticulture practices. This new approach was not universally accepted within the family, particularly in 2016, when Benoît decided to eliminate all synthetic herbicides (including the controversial glyphosate). Despite the concerns of his family and fellow winemakers, Benoît stayed the course and successfully managed his soils.

Today, Benoît goes even further with a focus on the “three zeros”: 0 insecticides, 0 herbicides, and 0 added sulfites during disgorgement. Certified HVE (High Environmental Value) and VDC (Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne) since April 2021, Benoît is also experimenting with organic farming on certain plots with a view to a complete transition.

What champagnes does the house produce?

Barbier-Roze: Unmatched Champagnes

Currently, nearly 90% of the sales are exported, but Benoît aims to grow his French clientele so that every French person can toast with Barbier-Roze Champagnes! Benoît’s primary motivation is to see his customers enjoy the pleasure of tasting his Champagnes.

Maison Barbier-Roze produces a wide range of Champagnes from traditional Champagne grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. From the "Classique" cuvée, perfect for an aperitif, to the more evolved and gastronomic "Réserve" cuvée, and the non-dosé "Réserve Zéro," there is something for every taste! Enthusiasts of Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and rosé Champagne are also well catered to with the "Sélection" cuvées. The motto is well deserved: Barbier-Roze, unmatched Champagnes!

Discover the wines of Champagne Barbier-Roze directly from the estate, at the estate price, in a short supply chain on Avenue des Vins.

Frequently asked questions about Champagne Barbier-Roze

Where is Champagne Barbier-Roze located?

The estate farms its vines in Verzenay, one of the Grand Cru villages on the Montagne de Reims. Its chalky subsoil yields structured Pinot Noir that shapes the house style.

Which grapes go into Barbier-Roze Champagnes?

The range draws on the three Champagne grapes: Pinot Noir at the core, plus Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Depending on the cuvée, the blend leans toward a Blanc de Noirs, a Blanc de Blancs or a rosé.

What does Benoît's 'three zeros' approach mean?

It stands for zero insecticide, zero herbicide and zero sulfite added at disgorgement. The method follows his decision to drop glyphosate back in 2016.

Which cuvées does Maison Barbier-Roze make?

The Classique suits an aperitif, the Réserve pairs with a meal and the Réserve Zéro is bottled without dosage. The Sélection cuvées round things out in Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and rosé.

Is the estate committed to sustainable farming?

Yes. Barbier-Roze has held HVE and VDC certification since April 2021 and is trialling organic growing on a few plots ahead of a possible full conversion.