Collection: Champagne Palmer
History Champagne Palmer & Co was founded in 1947 in Reims, Champagne, as an association of seven established grower-producers owning Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. This cooperative formed to enhance quality through shared resources, while each maintained individual press and winemaking facilities. The wines were blended and aged in Avize, emphasizing excellence over cost reduction. Headquartered in the Montagne de Reims region, Palmer has evolved into a premium house sourcing from over 350 growers across 4,000 hectares, with a consistent team of winemakers guiding decisions for the past 25-30 years.
Viticulture Philosophy Palmer sources grapes primarily from the Montagne de Reims, focusing on the eastern villages known for their Chardonnay structure, despite the area's reputation for Pinot Noir. The estate prioritizes Grand and Premier Cru sites, with over 220 hectares of meticulously tended vineyards. The philosophy centers on absolute respect for grape integrity, sustainable practices, and terroir expression, leveraging the region's chalky soils and cool climate to achieve balance, freshness, and longevity in the wines.
Winemaking Techniques Winemaking at Palmer is highly collaborative, led by Cellar Master Xavier Berdin and a team of four oenologists who evaluate over 200 distinct lots annually. Grapes undergo traditional méthode champenoise, with a strong emphasis on extended lees aging—far beyond legal requirements—to build complexity and round acidity through micro-oxygenation. The Brut Réserve, for instance, ages on lees for at least three years, while Blanc de Blancs receives additional time for elegance. Blends incorporate Chardonnay for structure, with minimal intervention to preserve purity and vibrancy.
Critics and Journalist Praises Champagne Palmer is acclaimed for its elegance and precision. Jancis Robinson praised the NV Blanc de Blancs Brut for its refined profile, awarding it high marks in recent tastings. The 2012 vintage was lauded for its timeless sophistication, with notes of citrus and brioche. Wine.com reviewers highlight the Brut Réserve's "succulent freshness" and balance, scoring it 92 points. BKWine Magazine described the Blanc de Blancs series as a "study in elegance," commending vintages from 2011 back to 1985 for their aging potential and finesse. Critics consistently note Palmer's innovative heritage and superior quality.
