Henri Giraud Hommage au Pinot Noir NV

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud, a historic family-run Champagne house in Aÿ dating back to the 17th century, champions terroir-driven and biodynamic practices, notably aging wines in Argonne oak instead of stainless steel. Hommage au Pinot Noir, a prestige Blanc de Noirs, highlights their artisanal tradition with oak aging and high reserve wine content .

Producer and Wine Maker

Under Claude Giraud’s direction, cellar master Frédéric Mestelan crafts this cuvée from 100% Pinot Noir, blending base wines fermented in oak with approximately 40% “perpetual reserve.” The aim is a rich, structured wine with natural complexity().

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from Aÿ Grand Cru and Montagne de Reims vineyards, planted on southeast-facing chalk slopes near the Marne River. The Continental climate, moderated by the river and farmed biodynamically, promotes slow ripening, purity, and freshness .

Vinification & Aging Methods

Approximately 11 months of barrel aging in oak, followed by six months in tank. The blend includes ~40% reserve wine, and bottles age en tirage for 36 months before disgorgement, with a Brut dosage around 5–6 g/L .

Tasting Notes

A light golden hue and persistent mousse lead to aromas of pear, white peach, citrus zest, apricot, salted almond, and sea breeze minerality. The palate is structured, saline, and textured, with stone fruit, chamomile, mint, and subtle spice—lively and elegant .

Food & Wine Pairing

Perfect with buttered shellfish (crab, lobster, oysters), sushi, aged cheeses, and savory poultry. The saline minerality complements seafood and creamy dishes beautifully().

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip or premium white-wine glass to highlight elegance and mineral clarity. No decanting needed().

Storage and Aging Potential

Recommended drinking window: now through ~2035. The use of oak, reserve wine, and magnum formats fosters graceful aging under proper cellaring (12–14 °C, stable humidity)().

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Pinot Noir .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12–12.5% .

Scores

• 94 / 100 – Wine Spectator: “Vibrant and saline… structured Blanc de Noirs with grapefruit, salted almonds…”

• 95 / 100 – Falstaff: “Golden… muscular core… oyster‑shell saltiness…”

• 94 / 100 – James Suckling: “Vibrant and saline… textured, almost oily palate… Drink or hold.”

• 93 / 100 – Decanter 

• 93 / 100 – Vinous: “Rich, ample and creamy… red plum, kirsch, mint…”