Lanson is inviting collectors to create their own cellar in the historic premises of its Reims house. Known for having one of Champagne’s most extraordinary old vintage collections, Lanson has experienced a tumultuous history since the Lanson family transferred ownership to the Gardinier Group in 1980. It wasn’t until 2006 that the house found stability with the Boizel-Chanoine Champagne group, which now operates as Lanson-BCC.
Despite losing its vast vineyard holdings during previous ownership changes, Lanson remains cellar-rich under the guidance of president François Van Aal and cellar master Hervé Dantan. Recently, they opened the doors to "Paradis Lanson," their beautiful historic cellar housing some of the oldest and rarest vintages, dating back to 1904.
Five years ago, Dantan initiated a monumental restoration project, treating bottles like museum artifacts, complete with detailed identity sheets that catalog essential details like pressure, sweetness, and condition. With expert advice from the Comité Champagne, they carefully recork each bottle ensuring that every one is meticulously preserved.
By maintaining Lanson’s traditional approach of skipping malolactic fermentation, the wines retain their natural freshness and acidity. Lanson’s Vintage Collection is now an even more distinguished offering, allowing collectors to store a curated selection of mature and new vintages within Lanson’s cellars. Collectors will have access to a Private Collection lounge and enjoy wines delivered in bespoke packaging, with an added buyback option for convenience.
To celebrate the launch of the Lanson Private Collection, a select group of Champagne critics and influencers were invited for a special tasting of exceptional vintage wines from the cellar. Dantan curated a lineup that showcased one standout vintage from each decade, offering a chance to experience the house’s legacy firsthand. Each wine exemplified the house’s signature style, marrying boldness with elegance, and showcasing the classic Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs terroirs.
Among the highlights of the tasting were the vibrant 2013, which displayed Lanson’s signature vibrancy and racy character, and the show-stopping 1964, which radiated complexity and sophistication. The emotional peak of the tasting was undoubtedly the 1921 vintage, which continues to tell the stories of its time, reflecting Lanson’s tradition of excellence and heritage. Through these tastings, Lanson emphasizes a culture of “time, transmission, and excellence” in its wine offerings.