Champagne houses come in all sizes, from those with well-known brands whose bubbly splashes out of millions of bottles each year to small producers whose quality far outpaces their quantity. A special group of these small producers is known as Independents, and this is why: Unlike large houses that buy all or most of their grapes, Independents must own or lease at least 90 percent of their vineyards; they make wines that reflect the individual character of those vineyards; they count their production in thousands, not millions, of bottles; and they often do much of their winery work by hand.
One of the finest Independents is José Dhondt. His Blanc de Blancs Brut Non-Vintage ($56) is a wine of tiny, intense bubbles, minerally, crisp and nicely nuanced. His vintaged Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, Mes Vielles Vignes ($82), the product of 65-year-old vines, is a magnificent Champagne, a mélange of melon and apples in aroma, a blend of satin and lace in texture.
Bernard Girardin made Champagne for about 50 years before asking his daughter Sandrine to take over. Today, she and her husband are Girardin’s only full-time employees, doing every winery task through to the final steps, three years after a harvest when the Champagne is released. Among their Champagnes are Bernard Girardin Brut Cuvée 2002 ($75), smooth yet feisty, delicate yet round and full; and Brut BG Cru Non-Vintage ($53), a particularly lively wine with miniscule bubbles that seem to go on forever.
Laherte Frères, founded in 1889, offers its Brut Tradition Non-Vintage ($44), piquant, delicate and lemony with a hint of green apple. Its Blanc de Blancs Champagne ($53) from a single vineyard, La Pierre de la Justice, is rich, aromatic, elegant and complex.
And there are the Laherte Frères’ two Rosés. Rosé Non-Vintage ($50) is a bright, fruity wine with an aroma that reminds me of fresh, ripe raspberries and with mouth-filling texture. Its Rosé de Saignée-Les Beaudiers Non-Vintage ($88) is a rarity, a Rosé Champagne made entirely from the Pinot Meunier grape. It is a refreshing, golden pale pink, full, luscious and firm-bodied Champagne.
Other Independent producers of fine Champagne include Vazart-Coquart, Marcel Moineaux, Bernard Brémont and Jacques Picard — all of them well worth the search.
Read This Next
All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 19, 2025“Viking Libra”: The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship
Able to operate with zero emissions, the new Viking Libra will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, set for delivery in late 2026. Currently under construction at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, Viking Libra will be part of Viking’s small-ship ocean fleet.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
May 2025
May 19, 2025Caribe Hilton Serves the Creamy Frozen Cocktail of Your Dreams
To paraphrase that cheesy but infectiously catchy 1970s yacht rock tune: If you like piña coladas — and the feel of the ocean — make a pilgrimage to discover the origin of this beloved tropical tipple.
Daily
May 19, 2025The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Unveils Property-Wide Transformation
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe recently debuted its property-wide transformation. The two-year project included an overhaul of guestrooms and suites, refreshed common spaces, updated dining concepts, and new experiences for guests.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
Slideshow
May 19, 20256 Roman Walls to Put on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these Roman walls with us.
Aman Announces Global Aman Club Expansion
Hotels
May 18, 2025Inkaterra Hotels Make a Peru Trip Unforgettable
Daily
May 16, 2025Daily
May 15, 2025Mansions, Gardens, Museums and More Await in Greater Wilmington, Delaware
Lovely any time of year, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley in Delaware shine in spring and summer, providing an easy getaway from nearby major cities like Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and New York City. Wind down with a stroll along the riverfront, or time your visit to enjoy outdoor and indoor sites, plus plenty of great food on these dates:
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
May 2025
May 15, 2025Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu
Corfu, or Kerkyra, as the Greeks call it, is arguably one of the most beautiful islands in Greece — and one of the most cultured. Part of the Ionian Islands located off the western coast of Greece and Albania, it boasts a storied history dating back nearly 3,000 years and a heritage shaped by many foreign rulers who made it their own.
ShareThis