2011 Henri Giraud Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Ay

The thought, care and attention to detail that goes into Henri Giraud’s Champagnes is second to none. The Blanc de Blancs is their rarest cuvée, with just 1,700 bottles made in 2011. Giraud ferments their wines in oak, which brings a signature intensity that is clearly evident here. The fruit for this wine is sourced from a single plot of Grand Cru Chardonnay in the village of Äy, La Croix de Courcelles, that has been in the Giraud family for generations. The result really is sensational, the palate bursting with lemon, apple, white blossom and a touch of apricot jam. In addition to this wonderful elegance and freshness, it has the signature Giraud intensity, depth and richness. The oak ageing has led to incredible complexity, with a fantastically long finish. An extremely memorable wine.