Helene Beaugrand

HELENE BEAUGRAND

Montgueux: The hidden gem of Champagne

Vines have graced Montgueux’s hills since the 12th century, only to face near-extinction by phylloxera in the late 1800s. Post-World War I, the Beaugrand family revived these slopes, pivotal in Montgueux achieving Champagne AOC status in 1927. The village’s main street, Leon Beaugrand, commemorates their pivotal role.

Situated in the Côte des Bars, Montgueux distinguishes itself with unique attributes: chalky soil and silex defining its terrain, complemented by southeast-facing slopes dedicated primarily to Chardonnay. Often dubbed “the Montrachet of the Champagne country,” its Cretaceous-era soil ensures optimal ripening conditions. Hélène Beaugrand’s journey spans continents and disciplines.

After earning her Agricultural Technician Certificate in oenology in the early 1990s, she pursued a BTSA in wines and spirits in Burgundy. Her training spanned five years across South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, California, and Mexico, followed by a tenure as a specialized sales representative for wines from Languedoc-Roussillon in Paris.

In 2008, she joined the family estate, eventually inheriting three hectares to establish her own vineyard unde her name—a departure from tradition. Hélène embodies dreamy originality and fierce determination, driven by a profound love for Champagne. Her wines reflect her journey and philosophy, crafted to showcase Montgueux’s terroir with minimal intervention. Through her dedication and innovation, Hélène Beaugrand emerges as a modern pioneer, reshaping Champagne’s narrative while honoring its rich heritage.