NV Deutz Brut Classic Champagne 750 ml

Champagne does not get more grand or stately than Deutz.

The house was founded in 1838—when the market for Champagne was in its infancy compared to today—but its reputation was such that by the time the Association of Grand Marques was formed in 1882, Deutz was a founding member.

These days, they’re owned by the Rouzaud family, who are famous as the stewards of Louis Roederer. But the two wines display markedly different styles, even if the same commitment to quality stretches across the board.

Deutz is based in the Grand Cru village of Aÿ, in Champagne’s Vallée de la Marne—and that location has been central to their success through the years. Aÿ is renowned for growing Pinot Noir and Meunier, producing powerful wines that lean towards the golden and toasty flavors.

To play into that strength, Deutz uses a staggering amount of reserve wines—over half in this edition—for a non-vintage bottling. The reserves see extra aging on the lees, an expensive process that endows the bottle with extra richness, texture, and length on the palate.

That’s why it’s a favorite of MICHELIN two-star L’Atelier du Joël Robuchon Miami. Head Sommelier Henrique Castillo loves to pair it with La Volaille, an astoundingly complex terrine of heritage chicken and black truffles, with shaved foie gras, cherries, and leeks. 

“It remains fresh and savory with aromas of brioche, dried apple skins and honeycomb that interplay beautifully with the earthy truffles and sweet foie gras,” he told us. But the traits that allow it to pair with the paragon of French cuisine also make it a delightful match for homier fare, like popcorn dusted with thyme and parmesan, or even a simple seared sea bass.