Location and Terroir
Cramant is a commune in the French department of Marne in the Champagne region Champagne and forms part of the arrondissement of Épernay. The place is located in the Côte des Blancs wine-growing area. The vineyards stretch across the hilly cuesta landscapes of the eastern Paris Basin, including hillside sites around the Butte de Saran with exposures from northeast to southwest.
Climate and Soils
The climate of Champagne combines oceanic and continental influences. Regular rainfall and moderate average annual temperatures are contrasted with risks such as winter frost and summer thunderstorms. Cramant is shaped by chalk-rich soils and subsoils. The porous chalk supports drainage and can supply the vines with water during dry phases through capillary rise.
Wine Profile
Cramant is among the communes whose Champagne wines may carry the protected designation Grand Cru when the grapes come from an appropriate origin. Chardonnay is the most important white grape variety of the Côte des Blancs and gives Cramant Chardonnay-based Blanc-de-Blancs champagnes their character. Wines of this kind are documented, among others, by Champagne Suenen and Champagne Diebolt Vallois.
Production
For the Champagne appellation, predetermined vine pruning systems apply, as well as the transport of whole grapes to the press. Pressing is carried out gently and step by step, with cuvée and taille treated separately. The second fermentation generally takes place in the bottle in which the wine is marketed. Before release, the wines must mature for at least 15 months from bottling; vintage wines must mature for at least 36 months.
