Henri Giraud Aÿ Blanc Grand Cru 2019 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud is a family-owned Champagne estate in Aÿ, with winemaking roots dating to the 1600s. The estate is celebrated for biodynamic viticulture and vinification in Argonne oak barrels. In addition to premium Champagnes, they produce small-lot still wines under the Coteaux Champenois label. The 2019 Blanc Grand Cru exemplifies their dedication to terroir, balance, and precision. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Led by Claude Giraud and cellar-master Frédéric Mestelan, the wine is crafted from hand-harvested Chardonnay from Aÿ Grand Cru. It is barrel-fermented and aged on fine lees, with no fining or filtration, emphasizing a natural, terroir-driven profile. ()

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Fruit is sourced from a one-hectare southeast-facing parcel in Aÿ on chalk-rich soils. The cool continental climate moderated by the Marne River encourages slow ripening and vibrant acidity—fundamental to the wine’s precision and structure. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

100% new French oak barrels are used for fermentation, followed by 12–15 months on lees, unfined and unfiltered. The technique yields a wine with layered complexity, texture, and mineral clarity. ()

Tasting Notes

Aromas of oyster shell, flint, dried lemon, crushed stone, anise, and cardamom. Medium-bodied with sharp, persistent acidity, minerality, and spice, finishing elegantly and with length. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Delicious with shellfish like oysters, scallops, crab, and creamy seafood dishes. Also pairs with goats’ cheese, mild Asian cuisine, and light poultry dishes. ()

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 10–12 °C in a premium white-wine or Burgundy glass to showcase aromatics and texture. No decanting needed.

Storage and Aging Potential

Drink from now (mid‑2025) and through 2030. With proper cellaring (12–14 °C, dark, stable humidity), it will develop deeper nuttiness and lees complexity.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Chardonnay from Grand Cru Aÿ. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 10.5%, as noted in critic reviews. 

Scores

• 95 / 100 – James Suckling: “Fantastic minerality and precision… Sharp, medium-bodied and complex, with an elegant and lengthy finish… 100% chardonnay… Drink or hold.” (tasted Jun 2022) 

• 90 / 100 – Vinous: “Very pleasant, easygoing… good depth and fine balance… pleasing aromatics.”