Henri Giraud Argonne 2016 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud is a prestigious family-owned Champagne house founded in Aÿ in the 17th century. Renowned for its commitment to biodynamic viticulture and unique vinification in Argonne oak barrels, the estate launched the Argonne series in 2005 to capture the terroir of the Argonne forest. Each vintage is produced in extremely limited quantities and presented in beautiful handcrafted wooden gift boxes made from the same oak trees used for barrel-making 

Producer and Wine Maker

Under the guidance of Claude Giraud and cellar-master Sébastien Le Golvet, the 2016 vintage was fermented in new Argonne oak barrels and blended with reserve wines from the solera system. The production emphasizes minimal sulfur, oak integration, and purity of expression 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes were sourced exclusively from Grand Cru Aÿ vineyards on southeast-facing chalk slopes near the Marne River. The region’s cool continental climate and diurnal variation foster slow ripening, vibrant acidity, and concentration. Biodynamic farming ensures purity and health of the fruit 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2016 base wines underwent barrel fermentation and aging in new Argonne oak barrels for approximately 12 months. A solera reserve from past vintages was integrated before additional bottle aging en tirage until disgorgement. Dosage is typical for Brut 

Tasting notes

Powerful yet elegant, this Champagne delivers intense citrus freshness with blood orange, grapefruit, pastry notes, dried citrus flowers, white lavender, cloves, cardamom, and spices. The palate is mineral-driven, tightly structured with dense mousse and a long, focused finish 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs wonderfully with shellfish (crab, lobster), sushi, seafood risottos, soft cheeses, and light, creamy fish dishes ()

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip or quality white-wine glass to highlight aromatics and mousse. No decanting required ()

Storage and Aging Potential

Ready to enjoy now, this vintage will cellar gracefully through 2050 under proper conditions (12–14 °C, stable humidity), with increasing complexity over time 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

~90 % Pinot Noir · ~10 % Chardonnay 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12–12.5 % 

Scores

• 98 – James Suckling

• 98 – Wine Advocate