How our story began
Some family stories take root deeply in the land. Ours began in fields cultivated with passion, seasons guided by farm work, and a love for the land passed down through generations.
From Farmers to Winemakers
In the 1950s, François Fournaise and his wife Agnès (née Dubois) made their living from farming crops and raising livestock. Some of their lands, however, were reclassified into the Champagne appellation, opening an unexpected door that changed the family’s future.
The document above is the Professional Card for Harvesters and Handlers.
In 1956, they planted their first vines. A few years later, in the 1960s, they began marketing their bottles under the name Champagne Fournaise Dubois, honoring their two family names. The brand was born simply and authentically, deeply rooted in local tradition.
François Fournaise received permission in 1963 to plant two additional parcels, named “Les Grèves” and “Le Petit Poirier.”
Passing on a Passion
In 1985, Hervé, their fifth child, harvested his first grapes. Despite his youth, he already had a strong passion for winemaking and quality craftsmanship. In 1993, newly married to Céline, Hervé officially took over the family business, renaming it Champagne Fournaise Dubois Fils, marking a new era.
With energy and determination, Céline and Hervé traveled across France to participate in many wine fairs and markets, determined to share their champagnes widely. These were years of intense work but also years filled with meaningful encounters, loyal customers, and growing recognition.
Family Time
In 2003, Céline and Hervé reduced their travels to focus more on raising their three children: Flora, Maxime, and Arthur. The vineyard continued to flourish, the wines improved, and the house remained quietly solid.
A New Identity, a New Momentum
2015 marked a turning point: the brand became Champagne C&H Fournaise, reflecting Céline & Hervé. This shift included a new logo and a desire to breathe new life into the family business. They returned to fairs, notably the wine and gastronomy fair in Rennes, turning a new page while maintaining their high standards and sincerity.
The Next Generation Steps Up
In 2019, Maxime, their eldest son, joined the business after gaining experience at the Serzy-et-Prin wine cooperative and earning a Bac Pro in viticulture and winemaking. He actively contributed to vineyard work and management, assisting his father with key tasks like environmental certifications HVE and VDC.
One year later, in 2020, Anne-Emmeline, Maxime’s partner, also joined the family journey. She learned step by step, working between vineyard and cellar, managing tasks like bottle labeling. The transfer of knowledge and passion continued smoothly.
Today: A Fresh Perspective
In 2025, the house continues to evolve. A subtle visual change is underway: Champagne C&H Fournaise is gradually becoming Champagne C.H. Fournaise. This gentle shift aims to make the brand clearer, more modern, and aligned with our customers’ expectations. The initials “C.H.” subtly hint at the word “Champagne,” a small nod some might appreciate.
But at heart, nothing has truly changed: the same attachment to our land, the same commitment to quality, the same joy in meeting people and sharing knowledge. Generation after generation, we continue to nurture and grow our family house.