HISTORY
EXCLUSIVE RATAFIA CHAMPENOIS IT'S...
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a historic specialty, a subtle blend of grape must and rare spirit, imbued with quintessential french elegance.
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a beverage officially recognized as PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) since 2015
Once served in the grandest brasseries and on the finest tables of Paris, Ratafia champenois nearly disappeared after the War. Champagne producers then focused on the sparkling wine we all know and enjoy today.
In 2016, sommelier Alexandre Wagner decided to restore this "incomparable elixir", as Alexandre Dumas once called it, to its former glory. In collaboration with Maison Goyard, he created "Exclusive Ratafia champenois", a specialty of unique refinement and delicate elegance.
A NOBLE BIRTH IN CHAMPAGNE
THE ORIGINS
Ratafia champenois is born from the centuries-old winemaking traditions of the prestigious Champagne region. This natural liqueur, created through the subtle union of fresh grapes must and eau-de-vie, reavels the full richness of the Champagne terroir.
The three noble grape varieties:
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Chardonnay : elegance and finesse
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Pinot noir : structure and character
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Pinot meunier : roundness and fruitiness
Crafted according to centuries-old methods passed down from generation to generation, Ratafia champenois has benefited since 2015 from the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), a guarantee of its authenticity and quality.
GOLDEN AGE
WHEN PARIS SAVOURED RATAFIA
In the 19th century, Ratafia champenois experienced its golden age. Served in the grandest brasseries and on the finest tables of Paris, it became the beverage of choice for the french aristocracy and bourgeoisie.
The origin of the word "Ratafia" is said to come from "ratify" : this noble liqueur was used to toast the signing of important contracts, sealing agreements with a touch of french elegance.
Alexandre Dumas, a fervent enthusiast, made it his favorite beverage and described it as an "incomparable elixir" - a renown that went through the centuries.
According to the gastronome Eric Poindron : "Ratafia champenois is above all, the gift one offers to friends. It is more than a drink, it is a state of mind."
THE JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
FROM SILENCE TO RENAISSANCE
After World War II, Champagne producers focused on developing the Champagne we know today. Ratafia champenois, a victim of this evolution, gradually fell into oblivion.
Maison Goyard, established in Ay-en-Champagne since 1911, remains one of the few guardians of this centuries-old tradition, quietly preserving the art of crafting Ratafia champenois.
THE RENAISSANCE BY ALEXANDRE WAGNER
2016 : YEAR OF THE RESURRECTION
In 2016, Alexandre Wagner, a passionate sommelier and expert in exceptional spirits, rediscovererd this forgotten specialty. captivated by its historical richness and complex flavors, he decided to restore it to its full glory.
The collaboration with Maison Goyard led to the creation of Exclusive Ratafia champenois : the perfect union of centuries-old craftsmanship and a contemporary vision.
The goal of Alexandre Wagner, the founder is to introduce this unique french specialty to the world, naturally limited by its Champagne origins, and to offer connoisseurs of fine spirits an authentic product steeped in history.
Today, Exclusive Ratafia champenois has reclaimed its place among the finest french liqueurs, proudly carrying the heritage of its Champagne origins to a new generation of discerning enthusiasts.
