The world of Champagne is evolving, and at its heart lies a passionate artisan who blends tradition with innovation. Julien Lefevre, cellar master at Champagne Collery, shares his journey from humble beginnings to crafting wines that defy trends and celebrate the region's hidden treasures. Through patience, tenacity, and an unyielding commitment to quality, Lefevre redefines what it means to be a modern winemaker in one of the most prestigious regions on Earth.

Discover the Visionary Behind the Rebirth of a Century-Old Legacy

A Journey Shaped by Roots and Exploration

In the picturesque landscapes of Champagne, Julien Lefevre’s story begins not as a distant dream but as a natural extension of his upbringing. As a young boy, he envisioned himself designing structures as an architect, yet fate steered him toward another form of creation—winemaking. His father introduced him to the vineyards during childhood, where the annual harvest became more than just a seasonal task; it was an initiation into a lifelong passion. Lefevre honed his craft under the tutelage of industry giants like Moët & Chandon and later expanded his expertise through Oenotechnic, a consultancy dedicated to sparkling wines. These experiences laid the groundwork for his role at Champagne Collery, where he collaborates with the team to forge a distinct identity rooted in excellence.Patience and persistence are lessons Lefevre continues to learn, emphasizing their importance in achieving greatness. For him, winemaking transcends mere technique—it demands dedication and vision. If Lefevre were a wine, his label would read as a testament to character: balanced, fresh, profound, and inviting. Such attributes mirror his philosophy of creating wines that resonate personally while fostering connections among those who partake in them.

Inspiration Drawn from Literary Giants and Musical Notes

Lefevre finds inspiration beyond the confines of the vineyard, drawing from diverse sources such as literature and music. Recently, he immersed himself in Ernest Hemingway’s "The Old Man and the Sea," a tale of perseverance and resilience. This literary masterpiece resonates deeply with his own approach to winemaking, reinforcing the idea that meaningful achievements often stem from overcoming challenges. Similarly, attending a live performance by Calogero, a renowned French-Italian singer, offered him a momentary escape from the meticulous world of viticulture, reminding him of life’s broader tapestry.These artistic pursuits enrich his perspective, enabling him to infuse creativity into every bottle produced under the Collery name. By blending influences from various domains, Lefevre ensures that each wine tells a unique story, reflecting both his personal growth and the evolving traditions of Champagne.

Tackling Trends While Upholding Authenticity

A significant frustration within the wine industry, according to Lefevre, revolves around critics and scoring systems that dictate so-called “trendy styles.” Such external pressures sometimes hinder exploration of authentic profiles or innovative blends deemed unconventional. Yet, rather than succumbing to these constraints, Lefevre remains steadfast in his pursuit of originality. He champions the notion that true craftsmanship should prioritize expression over conformity.Sustainability also plays a crucial role in his ethos. Implementing renewable energy solutions at the winery exemplifies his commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Looking ahead, Lefevre advocates for a circular economy aimed at reducing waste and promoting reusable packaging materials—a necessary step given the substantial energy required to produce glass bottles.

Admiration Reserved for Pioneering Houses

Among the many esteemed names in Champagne, Lefevre holds particular admiration for Jacquesson. Their storied history, coupled with exceptional vineyard management, distinctive blending processes, and remarkable sales success, sets them apart as paragons of excellence. Tasting their champagnes reveals intricate details meticulously considered throughout production—an embodiment of precision and artistry. Inspired by such models, Lefevre strives to emulate similar standards while carving out a niche defined by forgotten grapes native to the region.Language barriers occasionally pose obstacles in his professional endeavors, prompting a desire to communicate fluently across borders. Nevertheless, this limitation does not deter him from envisioning ambitious projects, such as crafting a cuvée exclusively utilizing lesser-known grape varieties indigenous to Champagne. Such ventures promise to illuminate untapped dimensions of the terroir, offering enthusiasts unprecedented opportunities to savor its rich diversity.

A Retreat into Nature’s Embrace

When contemplating leisure, Lefevre envisions complete disconnection from worldly distractions, allowing him to bask in the serenity of nature. This ideal getaway underscores his appreciation for simplicity and introspection, qualities mirrored in his approach to winemaking. Should he indulge in a final meal, it would feature a tender rib-eye accompanied by Saint-Joseph Le Clos 2011 from Chapoutier, paired impeccably with one of his cherished creations.As Champagne Collery prepares to exhibit at ProWein Düsseldorf, Lefevre stands poised to share his innovations with a global audience. His work embodies the spirit of renewal, honoring heritage while propelling Champagne into exciting new frontiers.