Portraits of winemakers

CHAMPAGNE ANDRÉ TIXIER, JULIEN TIXIER: ‘CHAMPAGNES MADE BY ENTHUSIASTS

"I’ve Always Been Immersed in the World of Champagne"

A Legacy in Champagne

Born into a family of winemakers, Julien Tixier has never considered working outside the wine industry. "I’ve always been immersed in the world of Champagne. I am the 4th generation of winemakers in my family. I completed a vocational baccalaureate in viticulture with the aim of taking over the family estate." After earning his diploma, Julien joined his father on the family farm, where he learned the trade. Since 2011, the young winemaker has been at the helm of the family business. "My father helps me in the cellars, my mother assists with the administrative side. As for me, I wear many hats," summarizes Julien.

Maison Champagne André Tixier: A Tradition of Quality

Founded in 1926 by Julien's great-grandfather André, Maison Champagne André Tixier spans 5 hectares across 26 Premier Cru vineyards and produces approximately 25,000 bottles annually. "We are independent winemakers and récoltants-manipulants, meaning we only make wine from our own grapes," Julien proudly states.

Sustainable Viticulture in the Heart of Champagne

Located near the Montagne de Reims forest, the vineyards of Maison Champagne André Tixier benefit from a northern exposure that creates a unique terroir. "The Reims forest retains heat throughout the day and releases it on our slopes at night, helping us avoid frosts," explains Julien, who is deeply committed to environmental preservation. With the Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) label and certification in Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne, Maison Champagne André Tixier practices reasoned viticulture, using minimal phytosanitary products like herbicides and insecticides.

Julien cultivates all three Champagne grape varieties (Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay) but primarily works with Pinot Meunier, which represents 60% of his vineyards. Aiming to produce "Champagnes crafted by enthusiasts that cater to all palates, from novices to experts," the young winemaker draws on the full potential of his terroir to offer a diverse range of wines, focusing on "refined, elegant, and well-rounded Champagnes."

New Cuvées for 2017

Constantly seeking innovation, Julien is preparing two 100% Meunier cuvées aged in oak barrels from the Chigny-les-Roses forest. "The release of these two cuvées is scheduled for 2017," notes the young winemaker. Also involved in wine tourism, Julien regularly organizes tours of his estate and tastings at his cellar, and attends wine fairs throughout the year.