Bruno Paillard was founded in Reims in 1981 by Bruno Paillard, who had worked as a Champagne broker before founding his own domaine. Paillard’s family has been growing grapes and selling Champagne in the region since the 18th century, so his leap into Champagne production was no great surprise. Paillard bought grapes from nearby growers for his first few vintages, then in 1994 began buying his own vineyards. Today Paillard owns 75 acres, about 30 of which are in Grand Cru appellations. His estate vineyards supply about a third of the grapes needed for the annual production of 500,000 bottles. The estate makes vintage and non-vintage Champagne and receives highly complimentary reviews for its wines. Wine Advocate has written that “Bruno Paillard’s Champagnes stand out for their elegance and total finesse. Although a relatively new house by Champagne’s standards, Paillard’s wines have a timeless classicism about them that is highly appealing.”