The Champagne with Red Silk Ribbon

La Maison G.H. Mumm, established in Reims since 1827, hides underground to 14 meters deep, 25 kilometers of galleries dug by hand. An ideal place for slow aging of wines in rhyme at a constant temperature of 10 ° C. In this amazing maze 25 million bottles rest waiting for the secondary or bottle fermentation – also known as the ‘prise de mousse’ – when the wines start to effervesce, until the day of disgorgement.

Georges Hermann Mumm was who in 1876 made a decision that would change the destiny of his champagne. Paying tribute to their prestigious clients put on the neck of each Cuvée Brut a red silk ribbon.

This decoration was inspired by the red sashes given to those distinguished individuals who received the highest French Honors, the Royal Military Order of Saint Louis and the Grand Cordon of the Legion of Honor. Beyond the visual strength of the Cordon Rouge, this decision was firmly established in the Maison Mumm as an ambassador for the spirit of his champagne, in recognition of their achievements.

Mumm Cordon Rouge appears in films, as well as some of the works of early twentieth-century artists, also in the pages of the famous comic book series’ chronicling the adventures of the intrepid young reporter Tintin Hergé. MUMM Cordon Rouge has been, and it is often, the choice of personalities in the celebration of important events and remains closely linked with the creations of the most awarded chefs.

On my last visit to the Maison Mumm, the chef de cave Didier Mariotti accompanied us on a tasting of ‘vins clairs’ and champagnes comparing different varieties of different Crus. Chardonnays from Cramant, of great freshness and minerality. Pinots Noir from Verzenay and Bouzy, complexity, maturity, body and structure. But many are the secrets kept by the so-called ‘writers champagne’. His silence gave way to the imagination, always in search of freshness and intensity, balance and elegance.

Since 2005, G.H.MUMM is part of the French group Pernod Ricard, one of the world’s leading wine and spirits. In early 2016 Formula 1 ended its 15-year association with Champagne Mumm as a sponsor. However, Mumm looks set to remain sponsor of ‘Formula E’.

According to a statement of Pernod Ricard: «We are very proud of our past and we have enjoyed 15 years as the official champagne of Formula 1, to see great success in terms of visibility and recognition. Our mission is to continuously innovate, excite and push the limits, so we have chosen to explore a new opportunity in Formula E racing electric motor which is in line with our brand values.»