Henri Giraud Aÿ Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2014 GiftBox

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud, a family-run Champagne estate since the 17th century in Aÿ, is recognized for its biodynamic viticulture and use of Argonne oak barrels rather than stainless steel, reflecting a deep connection between terroir and oak. This 2014 vintage, bottled in a collectible wooden box made from Argonne oak by a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, represents the pinnacle of their Blanc de Blancs range  .

Producer and Winemaker

Headed by Claude Giraud with cellar-master Frédéric Mestelan, the 2014 vintage was vinified entirely in new Argonne oak barrels. Grapes come exclusively from Grand Cru Aÿ Chardonnay, cultivated with biodynamic methods to preserve purity and site expression ().

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Fruit is sourced from southeast-facing, chalk-rich Grand Cru Aÿ plots, benefiting from a cool continental climate moderated by the Marne River. Biodynamic farming enhances concentration and balanced acidity  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

The wine spent 12 months barrel-fermenting in new oak followed by around 7–8 years on lees in bottle. This extended aging contributes to its texture, complexity, and integration of oak  .

Tasting Notes

Visually pale gold with luminous clarity. Aromas present lemon confit, mint, spice, pastry toast, and chalk. The palate is silky and phenolic yet supple, layered with crushed almond, brown butter, apricot, praline, white chocolate, and sage. Finishes long, saline, and sophisticated  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Fantastic with oysters, lobster, creamy shellfish dishes, fine white fish, and mild soft cheeses. It’s ideal as a luxurious aperitif or with refined seafood courses.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip or fine white-wine glass. A brief decant (10–15 minutes) can help open the complex aromatics and texture.

Storage and Aging Potential

Ready to drink now, it will continue to evolve gracefully through 2030–2033 when cellared at 12–14 °C in consistent, humid conditions.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay (Grand Cru Aÿ)  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12% ().

Scores

• 98 / 100 – James Suckling: “Beautiful interplay of vivacity and silkiness… fantastic integration… 100% new barrels…” 

• 96 / 100 – Antonio Galloni (Vinous): “The most delicate, nuanced and sculpted version… lemon confit, mint, spice, pastry, and a kiss of French oak…”