HENRI GIRAUD BLANC DE CRAIE GRAND CRU NV

Style: Rocks & Minerals

The Giraus Hemart family has diligently tended vines on the south facing slopes of Ay since 1625, making this the oldest champagne house still owned by its founding family. It was not until current head of house, 12th generation Clause Giraus, that champagnes were made under the family name. an annual production of about 250,000 bottles is sourced from the familys own 10 hectares, spread across 35 small plots, supplemented with fruit purchased largely from family and friends, all of which is pressed by Giraud. Planted to 70% pinot noir and 30% chardonnay, the magnificence of Ay is captured, thanks to vines of a minimum 30 years of age, planted on thin topsoils and deep chalk, tended according to organic principles and harvested at full ripeness. Musts are cold settled at 10C prior to fermentation, to enhance clarity and aroma, and all cuvees go through full malolactic fermentation. About one-third are vinified in 228 litre barrels from the Argonne forest south-east of Ay, an oak industry which Claude has been instrumental in reviving since 1989. TYSON STELZER

The NV Blanc de Craie, 100% Chardonnay from vineyards in Aÿ and Louvois, is bright and finely sculpted, with terrific aromatic intensity, tons of nuance and all the vibrancy from the chalk rich soils that give this cuvée its name. Citrus peel, white flowers, white pepper, mint and anise lead into the vivid, persistent finish. The Blanc is done entirely in oak, but it is neutral, so there is virtually no oak imprint at all in the flavours, only in the textural feel. One of the unique aspects of the Blanc de Craie is that the base vintage of 2017 accounts for only 30% of the blend. Dosage is 6 grams per litre.  ANTONIO GALLONI, Vinous

Region: Champagne, FRANCE

Variety: Chardonnay 

ABV: 12.5%

Liquor Act 2007. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years. Lic No. LIQP770016424

*We endeavour to ensure the correct vintage is displayed, however some variations may occur in store and for delivered bottles.