Fabienne Dourdon - Leaving Paris to Take Over the Family Champagne Estate

In this episode, I sit down with Fabienne Dourdon, a Champagne grower whose family has farmed vines in the Marne Valley since 1812. She shares the family’s journey from selling 100% of their grapes to the big houses to crafting their own wines—and what it meant to her to return home after more than a decade working in Paris to take over the family estate.We talk about how she’s reshaping the winery with a focus on freshness and precision, her belief in Pinot Meunier’s aging potential, and the story behind her barrel-fermented Meunier and long-aged Réserve de Germain. We also explore changing drinking habits and why exploring grower Champagne— and trusting your own palate—can reaveal just how diverse and exciting the region can be. 01:18 Family Roots Since 181202:13 Champagne Then vs Now03:18 From Growing Grape to Making Champagne06:00 Coops and Small Growers07:56 Finding Early Customers11:35 Growing Up in the Vines12:51 Weather Risks and Reserves15:24 Early Career in Paris and Returning to Champagne21:01 Training and Modern Viticulture24:06 Organic Farming and Quality Winemaking29:52 Meunier Reputation Revisited32:15 Barrel Fermented Meunier35:09 Reserve de Germain Blend36:44 Youth Drinking and Authenticity41:21 Grower Champagne Exploration45:43 Inspiration and Next Generation49:27 Closing Thanks and Signoff🙌 Enjoyed the episode?Follow, rate, and review Tasting Notes Toronto on your favorite podcast platform — it really helps others discover the show. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Champagne: Cork Pop and Pour by ultradust -- https://freesound.org/s/166923/ -- License: Attribution 4.0