Canard-Duchêne completes restoration project

Canard-Duchêne has finalised the renovation of its historic winery in Champagne with the help of a local architect.

The new barrel hall (Canard-Duchêne’s Authentic Green Champagne is fermented in oak)

The house has worked with Reims-based architect Nicolas Thiénot, who is the brother of Alain Thiénot, president of Group Thiénot, which owns Canard-Duchêne.

The first stages of the renovation began in 2011 with the restoration of the production facilities which are situated on Rue de Mailly in the village of Ludes, within the Montagne de Reims.

As previously reported by the drinks business, Canard-Duchêne invested over €1 million to integrate its winery into the landscape using wooden cladding and trees.

The project was inspired by Canard-Duchêne’s environmentally-sensitive positioning, which has been spearheaded by the brand’s Authentic Green organic Champagne, launched in 2010.

More recently, the Champagne house has restored its old cellars from the Ludes Château, which were destroyed during both World Wars. Dug out by hand in the 19th Century, the cellars extend over six kilometres and four levels, between 12 and 38 metres deep.

Finally, Canard-Duchêne has restored the 19th century facade of its headquarters on Rue de Mailly, opposite the production facilities.

“Improving the look of our buildings, whilst taking into account the environmental requirements, is henceforth a priority for Canard-Duchêne,” commented Laurent Fédou, cellar master for the house.

Over the following pages are pictures of the newly-restored facilities. 

Canard-Duchêne’s production facilities before renovation
Canard-Duchêne’s production facilities after cladding and renovation

The newly-restored cellars
The new interior at Canard-Duchêne’s facilities in Ludes