In episode 206, David Kermode meets Yann Munier, who joined G.H. Mumm as cellar master in April 2024. A native of Champagne, he talks about his passion for Pinot Noir, the grape that defines Mumm, and reflects on the 2024 vintage.
Kermode and Munier start by paying their respects to Munier’s predecessor, Laurent Fresnet, including his work in regenerative viticulture and on G.H. Mumm’s new tasting experience. They also discuss the history of the iconic house (including the correct way to pronounce its name).
Their conversation then turns to the Champagnes themselves. Munier provides insight into the thought process behind some of G.H. Mumm’s iconic cuvées, including the RSRV collection and Cordon Rogue, and gives a masterclass in the mechanics of blending Champagne. As a third-generation Champagne native and winemaker, Munier is well placed to describe some of the impacts of climate change on the area, which he does before covering some of the measures G.H. Mumm is taking to mitigate these impacts, including using non-malolactic wine in several of their blends.
Finally, Kermode finds out why Munier and G.H. Mumm are so determined to put Champagne into space with their Mumm Cordon Rouge Stellar cuvée, with Munier explaining that it’s all about making the cosmos a more welcoming place.
Discover more episodes of The Drinking Hour with David Kermode here.
