A Family Estate Since 1889

In 1889, Jean-Baptiste Laherte planted vines in the village of Chavot, in the Coteaux Sud d'Épernay just south of Champagne's wine capital. Over the next century, generations of the family farmed the land, and brothers Thierry and Christian Laherte, the "frères," built the estate's reputation. In 2002, Thierry's son Aurélien Laherte joined, and since 2005 he has led the domaine as the seventh generation. For drinkers looking to buy grower Champagne online, Laherte has become one of the most exciting names in the category.

Seventy-Five Parcels, Three Terroirs

Laherte farms about 11 hectares divided into some 75 parcels across three areas: the Coteaux Sud d'Épernay, the Côte des Blancs and the Vallée de la Marne. Limestone and chalky soils give finesse, while the family's old Meunier vines bring depth and fruit. Aurélien is also one of the few growers to work with all seven permitted Champagne grape varieties, including rare ones like Petit Meslier and Arbane.

Organic, Biodynamic and Hands-On

Under Aurélien, the estate farms organically and biodynamically, vinifies each parcel separately and ferments much of the wine in wood. Single-vineyard cuvées are often made in Burgundy barrels without malolactic fermentation and bottled without fining or filtration. Aurélien also co-founded Terres et Vins de Champagne, a down-to-earth group of growers, with his childhood friend Raphaël Bérêche. He believes Champagne should be for everyone.

The Extra Brut Rosé de Meunier

This rosé is 100% Meunier from the family's older vines, built from three components: mostly white-pressed Meunier, a portion of macerated Meunier for color and texture, and a small amount of red Meunier wine. A share of reserve wines aged in barrel adds depth, and a low Extra Brut dosage keeps it crisp. Expect cranberry, wild strawberry, blood orange, mint and white pepper over a chalky, mouthwatering finish. Antonio Galloni called it simply "dazzling."

Why Laherte Frères Matters Today

Laherte captures everything that makes grower Champagne exciting: living soils, curiosity, precision and real personality in the glass. For customers of Harvest Wine Shop San Diego, the Rosé de Meunier is a perfect bottle for celebrating, gifting or simply making a weeknight dinner feel special.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Who runs Laherte Frères?

Aurélien Laherte, the seventh generation, who has led the estate since 2005.

2. Where is Laherte Frères located?

In Chavot, in the Coteaux Sud d'Épernay, just south of Épernay.

3. When was the estate founded?

In 1889 by Jean-Baptiste Laherte.

4. What grapes are in the Rosé de Meunier?

It is 100% Pinot Meunier, combining white-pressed, macerated and red Meunier.

5. What does "Extra Brut" mean?

Extra Brut Champagne has very little added sugar, making it drier and crisper than Brut.

6. Is Laherte organic?

Yes. Aurélien farms organically and biodynamically.

7. What does it taste like?

Cranberry, wild strawberry, blood orange, mint and white pepper with chalky minerality.

8. What is Terres et Vins de Champagne?

A group of independent growers that Aurélien co-founded with Raphaël Bérêche to showcase terroir-driven Champagne.

9. What food pairs with Laherte Rosé de Meunier?

• Seafood: Salmon tartare, tuna, shrimp
  
• Meat: Duck, pork tenderloin, charcuterie
  
• Vegetarian: Beet salad, mushroom dishes
  
• Cheese: Brie, aged Comté
  

10. What are the seven Champagne grapes?

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier, plus the rare Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbane. Laherte grows all seven.

11. Can this rosé age?

Yes. It is delicious young but can gain savory depth with a few years in the cellar.

12. Why is Meunier special?

Meunier gives round, fruity, spicy wines and thrives in the cooler, clay-rich soils around Épernay and the Marne Valley.

13. How should I serve it?

Chill to about 45 to 50°F and use a white wine glass for the best aromas.

14. Where can I buy Laherte Frères online?

You can buy it at Harvest Wine Shop San Diego, specializing in grower Champagne and biodynamic wine, with shipping to California and select states.