Armand de Brignac Demi Sec NV (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Created by Champagne Cattier and relaunched in 2006, Armand de Brignac – better known as “Ace of Spades” – is a prestige multi‑vintage Champagne brand now co-owned by Jay‑Z and LVMH  . The house balances modern luxury with deep-rooted tradition, sourcing fruit from approximately 30 ha family vineyards in Montagne de Reims and additional select Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites  . Every bottle is meticulously finished by hand, encased in the iconic metallic bottle and packed in an elegant gift box.

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by 11th and 12th generation Cattier winemakers Jean‑Jacques and Alexandre, and crafted by a team of 18 artisanal cellar hands, each cuvée prioritises prestige, complexity, and textural finesse. The Demi‑Sec debuted in 2015 to cater to sweeter palates while retaining the brand’s hallmark richness and depth  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

This cuvée draws on a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier sourced from Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs and other premier parcels. Champagne’s chalk soils, temperate continental climate, and marked diurnal range promote bright acidity, minerality, and refined intensity ideal for ageing and dosage balance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Made from multi-vintages (e.g., 2009–2012), the first press fraction is used for all components. Primary fermentation takes place in French oak barrels. The wine is aged for nearly six years on lees in deep chalk cellars before dosage. With 33 g/L sugar, the Demi‑Sec preserves balance via extended lees contact  .

Tasting Notes

Luxurious amber-gold color with fine mousse. On the nose: buttered brioche, English candy, compote fruits, caramel, quince, grapefruit  . The palate is rich and opulent, delivering crystallized citrus, honey, wild blueberries, blackberry notes, and toasted brioche  . Vibrant acidity balances sweetness with a creamy, persistent finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

Exceptional with foie gras, creamy cheeses, exotic fruits, lightly spiced curries, baked or poached desserts, crème brûlée, tarte Tatin and fruit-based pastries ().

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a white-wine or tulip glass to highlight sweetness and aromatics. No decanting is necessary. Pour gently to preserve the delicate mousse.

Storage and Aging Potential

When stored at 10–12 °C with stable humidity, it can age gracefully for 10–15 years, developing richer honey, nut, and tertiary notes while retaining structural freshness ().

Grape Varietals & percentage used

40 % Pinot Noir 40 % Chardonnay 20 % Pinot Meunier  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5 % ()

Scores

• Decanter (Christelle Guibert): 93

• The Tasting Panel (Anthony Dias Blue): 92