Recognizing Expertise
Our Fine Sparkling Wines
Age-old know-how
The recognition of Maison Ackerman’s expertise is the fruit of its presence over the past two centuries at the very heart of the Saumur area, as well as its strong and lasting implication in the region. The wines are chiefly derived from our vineyard (104 ha), known as Les Dames de la Vallée, the vine-growing of which, is exclusively adapted to the requirements of refined sparkling wines – rare for the region. Peer and public recognition, as well as a dynamic strategy, combined with an in-house research and development department, allow the House to position itself as the leader in Loire Valley sparkling wines.
Maison Ackerman boasts the following assets: several centuries of expertise, a DNA associating authenticity, conviviality and audacity, committed collaborators from the vineyard through to sales, privately owned vines, a R&D center at the very heart of the vineyard, a wine tourist site drawing close to 50,000 visitors each year, the latest winemaking and bottling technology, a strong relationship with its customers and partners.
A long history of awards
For a long time, Maison Ackerman has traditionally received awards, starting in 1838, with a gold medal at the industrial show in Angers. At the Universal Exposition of Paris in 1844, its bubbly wine was awarded the gold medal, when it won the Sparkling Wine World Championship. Cuvée Royal received gold medals at the following international competitions – Paris in 1855, 1889 and 1900, Calcutta in 1883, Liverpool in 1886 and Brussels in 1935. This rapid recognition was boosted by the development of the railway that was equally supported and financed by Ackerman. This investment allowed the company to quickly export its wines during the 19th century, including Cuvée Royal which was served, at major luxury hotels, palaces, restaurants and cafés throughout Europe and worldwide. Maison Ackerman was even the supplier of the prestigious TransAtlantique shipping line.
As of 1860, Champagne producers reacted and continuously contested Ackerman’s sparkling wines in the courts for some 20 years.
A guarantee of quality for consumers
The awards and prizes that have been attributed to our House confirm the standard of quality of our wines and guarantee pleasurable tasting moments for our customers from one year to the next. The hundred plus medals awarded each year, contribute to promoting and gaining recognition for Loire Valley wines.
“All of our work is rewarded by customer loyalty and by the attribution each year of medals and distinctions at official competitions. Our priority remains that of providing quality wines. As a result, from the vineyard through to the finished product, we ensure that the harvest’s fruit is elaborated into wine with the utmost respect.” Bernard Jacob, Managing Director
In recent years, wine has witnessed changes in terms of quality and quantity; with such a complex selection of products to choose from consumers have to be reassured before buying something. Experiential signs including medals and distinctions are quality indicators and symbols of trust.
