VSOP Petite Fine Champagne Cognac, Chateau de Montifaud

Chateau Montifaud has belonged to the Vallet family for six generations now: the vineyard was created in 1837 by Augustin and has seen the succession of Pierre, Maurice, Louis and Michel. Laurent came to join his father and grandfather in October 2000. 

To obtain a floral eau-de-vie (wine spirit) which truly represents the Petite Champagne vintages, harvesting a healthy grape crop is extremely important. The grape varieties of Colombard and Folle Blanche are harvested first and then followed by the Ugni-Blanc. The grapes are crushed upon their arrival at the winery in order to avoid any sort of oxidation. In 2004, the Vallets installed three pneumatic presses of 50 hectolitres each to improve the pressing (a 50 hectolitre capacity was prefered over 80Hl or 100Hl with the aim of reducing the filling time and, thus, oxidation).

Fermentation temperatures are kept below 24-25֯C so as to preserve the floral qualities of grapes grown in Petite Champagne. The wines are stored with their sediment to help preserve them and to prevent oxidation. No anti-oxidizing agents are used, the high acidity levels alone are sufficient to preserve the wine until distillation.

The distillation process is begun as soon as the wines reach their malolactic fermentation stage, generally at the beginning of November, finishing at the end of January/beginning of February. The wines are distilled with their sediment, resulting in a slower distillation to concentrate the flavours and to accentuate the roundness and suppleness of the eaux-de-vie.

When ageing their brandies, family tradition favours the floral and fruity character of their cognacs, avoiding any excessive time spent in new barrels. Their casks of 350 litres are made of Limousin oak which is personally selected by the Vallets and their cooper and stored for three years before being used.

The work in the cellars is handled uniquely by Michel and Laurent Vallet, as is the blending which draws on many different vintages to maintain continuity of the house style. All bottling is done at the domaine.