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The Testu de Balincourt family is a family from the French nobility whose roots are in the Île de France (Vexin). The name Testu derives from the tenacity in combat of the ancestors of the family, many of whom came from the army.
The Balincourt line was at the origin of many figures who marked the history of France through high positions in the service of the various kings of France: Secretary of Finance and State, Ambassador, Deputy, Knight, Lieutenant-General of the King's armies, Governor, Commander and Marshal of France.
The family was granted many prestigious titles such as Lord, Baron or Marquis.
This is particularly the case of Claude-Guillaume Testu, Musketeer of the King, Marquis of Balincourt, Baron of Bouloire, born on March 18, 1680 in Paris and died on May 12, 1770, who also had a brilliant military career. He was appointed Commander in Alsace and governor of the city of Strasbourg on January 1, 1746, then was made Marshal of France the same year.
To crown his loyalty and bravery, the king granted him lands, notably in the Grand Est region at
Châlons-en-Champagne in the Marne valley, the cradle of
Champagne Louis Balincourt.
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.