The Balincourt House

A sign of excellence since 1804

A Noble Legacy

The Testu de Balincourt family is a family of French nobility with roots in Anjou, Picardy and Champagne. The name Testu derives from the fighting tenacity of the family's ancestors, many of whom came from the military.


The Balincourt lineage was at the origin of many figures who marked the history of France.


This is particularly the case of Louis Testu. A cavalry brigadier, he became a commander and was then made a Knight of the Order of Saint Michel in 1620. The duties he fulfilled at court as well as the advice he gave to the kings of France earned him his ennoblement in 1625 by the position of secretary to King Louis XIII. The title of Lord of Balincourt was granted to him in July of the same year.


Claude Guillaume Testu, Marquis de Balincourt, born on March 18, 1680 in Paris and died on May 12, 1770, also had a brilliant military career. He was made Marshal of France on October 19, 1746, then Knight of the King's Orders on June 7, 1767.


To reward his loyalty and bravery, the king granted him lands, notably in Châlons-en-Champagne in the Marne valley, the birthplace of Louis Balincourt Champagne.


Chalk Pits Heritage 1804

To ensure optimal aging, the house contains a real treasure "an underground cathedral". This old chalk quarry exploited in medieval times was used to supply stones for the construction of houses and churches.


These majestic Gallo-Roman chalk pits, which extend almost 100 feet underground and are part of the Hillsides, Houses and Cellars of Champagne listed as UNESCO World Heritage, were used from 1804 for the production and ageing of Champagne.


The galleries (representing a storage capacity of 2 million bottles) are now used as a cellar for the best vintages signed Balincourt. They allow the champagne to be stored away from light at a constant temperature (50°F) and humidity.


Produced in strict accordance with the greatest champagnes, this one is distinguished by magnificent complex aromas, very fine bubbles and a delicate finish.


Nowadays, Champagne Balincourt is owned and operated by the Meyblum family.


Book a Tour

At Balincourt, we are dedicated to producing great champagnes while preserving a world heritage site for future generations.


Erik Meyblum - Owner


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