RATAFIA CHAMPENOIS
At the heart of Dumangin J. Fils Champagnes, it is a sum of small details that truly sheds light on the terroir and on human work. For Gilles, the profession of winemaker and Cellar Master is above all a skilful mix of addition and precision that allows him to develop wines of character and good allure.
In 1994, while a student in London, Gilles wandered the streets of the capital and came across a small wine merchant, not far from Harrods. The latter invites him to taste one of his latest finds: a Single Malt Whiskey "Tain L'Hermitage Finish" Vintage 78. Love at first sight is immediate. Gilles then promises to launch his range of Ratafias and Champenois Spirits on which he will affix his own label, his “Champagne Twist”, as soon as he returns to France.
In 2002, Gilles therefore vinified his first Ratafia with a very specific idea in mind: to make the fruit sweat. To do this, he decides to use a Fine Champenoise (IGP) rectified with a very high alcohol level.
Faithful to Lavoisier's philosophy, the Audacieux decides to age his Ratafia Champenois in second-hand barrels to give it a little tannic touch close to the famous “Tain L'Hermitage Finish” that he loves so much. Coupled with an extremely long aging time, between 6 and 9 years of age for his Ratafia Champenois Traditionnel, and up to 14 years of age for his Ratafia Champenois Prestige, the star winemaker has transformed his test into a master stroke.
In 1994, while a student in London, Gilles wandered the streets of the capital and came across a small wine merchant, not far from Harrods. The latter invites him to taste one of his latest finds: a Single Malt Whiskey "Tain L'Hermitage Finish" Vintage 78. Love at first sight is immediate. Gilles then promises to launch his range of Ratafias and Champenois Spirits on which he will affix his own label, his “Champagne Twist”, as soon as he returns to France.
In 2002, Gilles therefore vinified his first Ratafia with a very specific idea in mind: to make the fruit sweat. To do this, he decides to use a Fine Champenoise (IGP) rectified with a very high alcohol level.
Faithful to Lavoisier's philosophy, the Audacieux decides to age his Ratafia Champenois in second-hand barrels to give it a little tannic touch close to the famous “Tain L'Hermitage Finish” that he loves so much. Coupled with an extremely long aging time, between 6 and 9 years of age for his Ratafia Champenois Traditionnel, and up to 14 years of age for his Ratafia Champenois Prestige, the star winemaker has transformed his test into a master stroke.
