Armand de Brignac, instantly recognisable by its striking metallic bottles and pewter ace of spades emblem, has become one of the most talked-about Champagne houses of the modern era. Though its branding feels contemporary, its roots stretch deep into the traditions of Champagne craftsmanship. The brand is owned by the Cattier family, vintners in Chigny-les-Roses since 1763, who still oversee production today.
The rise of Armand de Brignac — often referred to simply as “Ace of Spades” — came in the mid-2000s when it was unveiled to the world and quickly embraced by a new generation of Champagne drinkers. Celebrity endorsements, most notably by Jay-Z (who acquired a 50% stake in 2014 and later full ownership before partnering with LVMH in 2021), helped propel the house into global fame. Yet behind the glitz, the wine itself is made with meticulous care.
Production remains intentionally limited, with only a small team of winemakers led by Jean-Jacques and Alexandre Cattier handling every stage by hand. Grapes are sourced from premier and grand cru vineyards across the Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, and Côte des Blancs, giving a wide palette of terroirs to blend from. The wines are produced in a traditional Champagne style, aged in chalk cellars deep beneath the village of Rilly-la-Montagne.
Armand de Brignac is best known for its Brut Gold, but the range extends to prestige cuvées such as the Rosé, Demi-Sec, and the rare Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs. Each bottle is finished with a polished metallic coating, applied by hand, and adorned with the iconic spade insignia. This fusion of artisanal detail and bold design has made the brand one of the most recognisable symbols of luxury Champagne worldwide.
Though its image is modern and opulent, the winemaking remains deeply rooted in Champagne’s traditions. Small-scale production, long ageing, and precision blending ensure that Armand de Brignac is not just a statement on the table, but a serious player in the world of prestige Champagne.