2* (Moving on Up)
Champagne Frerejean Frères is nestled in the celebrated Grand Cru village of Avize between rolling hills of vines in the Côte des Blancs, Champagne.
Founded in 2005, Frerejean Frères is a family-owned estate \ spanning 6 hectares, predominantly vineyards, with a conscientious nod to the woodlands comprising its land.
The chalky soil in the area produces a beautifully mineral Chardonnay which is unique to the region.
With an annual production of 1,125 hectolitres, Frerejean Frères is steadily advancing in the realm of sustainable viticulture. The estate leans towards traditional methods, with manual harvests synchronised with the lunar calendar, avoiding the use of machinery, and abstaining from pesticides in favour of natural vine treatments.
Their approach to sustainability embraces time-honoured practices, allowing the lengthy ageing process of their wines to foster complexity and character naturally. The commitment is to expand gently, maintaining their artisanal quality while looking to acquire more land and introduce a boutique hotel experience showcasing Champagne's natural beauty and the winery’s philosophy.
Facing modern challenges like the scarcity of local bottling materials, high operational costs due to sustainable practices, and climate change's unpredictable impact, Frerejean Frères remains dedicated to its ecological approach. This includes fostering biodiversity and adhering to natural soil management without a formalised carbon footprint reduction strategy.
Their winemaking is a testament to patience, allowing the terroir to articulate its narrative through their wines. They practice organic methods, though not certified, with ambitions to secure biodynamic certification to further solidify their sustainable stance.
The estate's engagement with the community shines through collaborations with local artisans and community projects. They support ethical sourcing, ensure fair wages for all staff, and have strong female leadership influencing their decision-making processes.
In the context of environmental responsibility, Champagne Frerejean Frères continues to invest in their journey towards a more sustainable future, hoping to inspire a deeper appreciation for conscientious winemaking. Their 2* "Moving on Up" rating signifies a commitment to progress and quality, both in the bottle and beyond.
