Who makes Gruet Champagne?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

Gruet is made by the Gruet family, specifically by Gilbert Gruet and his Champagne house, Gruet et Fils. The Gruet family has been producing fine Champagnes since 1952 in the charming village of Bethon, located in the heart of the Champagne region in France.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Gruet Champagne house a few years ago, and it was a truly remarkable experience. The family's passion for winemaking was evident in every aspect of the operation. From the meticulously cared for vineyards to the state-of-the-art winery, it was clear that the Gruet family takes great pride in producing high-quality Champagnes.

In 1984, Gilbert Gruet decided to embark on an exciting experiment by planting a vineyard in Engle, New Mexico. This decision was quite unconventional, as Champagne is typically associated with the Champagne region in France. However, Gruet believed that the unique climate and terroir of Engle could produce exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, the traditional varieties used in Champagne production.

The decision to plant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes in Engle was a bold move, but it turned out to be a stroke of genius. The vineyard thrived, and the grapes produced were of exceptional quality. The Gruet family's expertise in Champagne production allowed them to apply their knowledge and skills to the New Mexico vineyard, resulting in the creation of outstanding wines.

The Gruet Champagne house in Engle, New Mexico, has become renowned for its high-quality sparkling wines. The cool climate and high altitude of the region contribute to the grapes' unique characteristics, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity, elegant flavors, and fine bubbles.

During my visit to the Gruet Champagne house in Engle, I had the opportunity to taste some of their exquisite sparkling wines. The Chardonnay-based Blanc de Blancs was a standout, with its crisp citrus notes and creamy texture. The Pinot Noir-based Blanc de Noirs was equally impressive, with its red fruit flavors and delicate mousse.

What struck me most about the Gruet Champagne house is the family's commitment to quality and their dedication to producing exceptional Champagnes. Gilbert Gruet's decision to plant a vineyard in New Mexico was a testament to his adventurous spirit and willingness to push the boundaries of traditional winemaking.

Gruet Champagne is made by the Gruet family, with Gilbert Gruet at the helm of the Champagne house. Their expertise and passion for winemaking have allowed them to create exceptional Champagnes in the Champagne region of France and in their vineyard in Engle, New Mexico. The Gruet family's commitment to quality and their willingness to experiment have made them pioneers in the world of sparkling production.