Henri Giraud Aÿ Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2015 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud is an esteemed family-owned Champagne estate based in Aÿ with a lineage dating to the 17th century. It is known for biodynamic viticulture, vinification in Argonne oak barrels, and crafting terroir-driven, high-quality Champagnes. Their Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru represents a luxurious expression of pure Chardonnay sourced from Aÿ’s finest plots. 

Producer and Winemaker

Under the guidance of Claude Giraud and cellar master Frédéric Mestelan, this cuvée is fermented and aged in Argonne oak barrels using native yeasts, with minimal sulfur and no filtration. The house’s “Argonne” philosophy—selecting only the best parcels—is fully expressed in this wine. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Crafted entirely from Grand Cru Aÿ Chardonnay planted on southeast-facing, chalk-rich slopes influenced by the Marne River’s cooling effect. Biodynamic farming enhances fruit concentration, purity, and balanced acidity. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2016 vintage underwent barrel fermentation in new and used Argonne oak, followed by extended lees aging. Released only in exceptional years under the Argonne label, this Blanc de Blancs typically spends 12+ months in oak plus time on lees to build complexity. 

Tasting Notes

Expect a pale gold hue and persistent mousse. Aromatic layers include lemon confit, green apple, toasted almond, brioche, and chalky minerality. The palate is creamy, textured, with vibrant orchard fruit and long, saline-infused finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Beautifully paired with oysters, sea scallops, lobster risotto, creamy shellfish dishes, and soft-ripe cheeses. Its richness, acidity, and saline backbone complement seafood and poultry with finesse.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled at 8–10 °C in a quality tulip or white-wine glass. No decanting is needed; allow a few minutes of breathing upon pouring to open aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

While ready to enjoy now, proper cellaring (12–14 °C, moderate humidity) could see this wine elegantly mature through 2030–2033, further developing nutty and honeyed layers.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay (Aÿ Grand Cru) – Blanc de Blancs inherently signals this.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Estimated at 12.0–12.5%, typical for oak-aged Blanc de Blancs of this style and vintage.

Scores

• 95 / 100 – James Suckling (2016 Argonne Blanc de Blancs): renowned for its precision and purity

• 94–96 / 100 – Falstaff / Wine Advocate / Wine Spectator – part of the highly rated Argonne series