We were intrigued by the Champagne Jeeper Grand Assemblage name when we came across this bottle in the store. It just appeared so American to us because a couple of things came to mind: the movie Jeepers Creepers and Jeep. We even checked twice to ensure it was Champagne from the Champagne region of France and not an American impostor.
Maison Jeeper Story
What do the Jeeper Champagne and Jeep have in common?
When the original owner founded the Champagne house in 1949, he named it Champagne Jeeper in tribute to the legendary Willys Jeep he acquired from the American military at the end of the Second World War, which allowed him to tour the vineyards in comfort.
Today Jeeper, located in Faverolles et Coëmy, a commune near Reims in the northwest of the Champagne region, is in the hands of the young enthusiastic team headed by Maison Director Nicolas Dubois. They released their first bottle in 2010 and never looked back.
Jeeper consists of fifty hectares of vineyards planted on some of the most exemplary plots (in the Montagne de Reims, the Côte des Blancs, the Marne Valley Ardres Valley offering a balanced representation of the Champagne region.
Champagne Jeeper Grand Assemblage
In the Bottle
Grand Assemblage Brut is blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir grapes that came from the vineyads in historically renowned villages such as Ambonnay, Cramant, Bouzy, Oger, Vincelles, Trélou sur Marne, Ville-Dommange, Savigny sur Ardres.
In the Glass
Judging by the name of Grand Assemblage, we expected the classic Champagne, and it didn’t disappoint.
The brioche toast, lemon, green apple, and limestone mineral aromas seamlessly flowed into a crisp palate of apple butter, baked apple, and lemon custard sprinkled with lemon zest.
Aftertaste and Verdict
Jeepers Grand Assemblage Brut is a solid representation of the Champagne region with its classic aromas and flavors. Yet, we can’t say that it set itself apart from other Champagnes in its price category.
Still, it would make a great companion to oysters, Chilean Sea Bass, or grilled Branzino.
In the comments below, let us know your thoughts on this Champagne. Have you tried other lesser-known or newer producers from this region? We would love to try your suggestions.