Serge Mathieu

Settled at least since the 18th century in Avirey-Lingey, over the decades the Mathieu family built up a vineyard that today covers about a dozen hectares. In 1760, then in 1860 and 1894, notarial deeds record the purchase of several parcels located in the district of Avirey-Lingey. Many more purchases would be made in the following century, despite economic difficulties. Thus, 7 generations of winegrowers succeeded each other at the head of the estate and traded in their grapes. In 1958, Serge Mathieu took over the business with his father France. He took advantage of a revival of interest in Champagne wines and produced his first bottles in 1970. From the 5,000 bottles of the early years, production quickly increased to 40,000 bottles sold mostly in France.

In 1987, Isabelle Mathieu, his daughter, joined the Maison. With a degree in languages, she travelled the roads of France, Germany and England, multiplied her contacts and quickly gained a clientele that remained loyal. Within ten years, sales exceeded 80,000 bottles, 60% of which were exported, proportions worthy of the Great Houses of the Marne! In 1996, Isabelle married Michel Jacob, a winegrower from Merrey-sur-Arce, a neighbouring village. He joined the company two years later and decided to give the vineyard a new lease of life. In the cellar, Serge accompanies the newcomer and gradually hands over the reins to him. Isabelle and Michel Jacob-Mathieu lead the house with energy, take charge of the four areas of viticulture (vineyard, cellar, commerce and administration), travel and happily talk to visitors and customers from all over the world, with a smile and an Aube accent, of course.