Henri Giraud MV Rosé

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud, a family-run Champagne house since the 17th century in Aÿ, is renowned for biodynamic viticulture and oak barrel vinification using Argonne forest barrels. Their Fût de Chêne multi-vintage Rosé is a flagship expression of their artisanal, terroir-focused philosophy. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Under Claude Giraud and cellarmaster Frédéric Mestelan (later joined by Sébastien Le Golvet), this Rosé is crafted from 70–80% Pinot Noir (including ~6–8% red wine maceration) and 20–30% Chardonnay. It embraces natural yeasts, minimal intervention, and long lees aging. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Sourced exclusively from Aÿ Grand Cru vineyards planted on southeast-facing chalk slopes near the Marne River, the cool continental climate ensures slow, balanced ripening and concentrated fruit. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Base wine ferments in small Argonne oak barrels (20% new) and undergoes malolactic conversion. It is aged on lees for ~12 months before blending into a solera-style reserve aged further in oak and bottle for ~60 months, followed by disgorgement with ~7–8 g/L dosage (Brut). 

Tasting Notes

Pale copper with fine mousse. Aromas of red fruits (cherry, strawberry), blood orange, brioche, spice, oyster shell salinity, and menthol. The palate is powerful yet elegant, with hedgerow fruits, cranberry, black cherry, chalky minerality, and a long savory finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with shellfish (crab, lobster, oysters), grilled seafood, light poultry dishes, smoked or spicy foods, sushi, and aged cheeses. ()

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip or quality white-wine glass. No decanting required. 

Storage and Aging Potential

Best now through 2030+. The extended oak and reserve wine aging allow graceful evolution, gaining complexity and tertiary nuances. Magnum formats further enhance ageability. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

• Pinot Noir: 70–80% (incl. ~6–8% red maceration)

• Chardonnay: 20–30% 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12% ()

Scores

• 97 – James Suckling: “Copper‑orange… creamy, broad and powerful… a long, savory finish.” 

• 95 – James Suckling (earlier tasting): “Very complex… fresh red berries… savory, forest mushroom finish.” 

• 94 – Wine Spectator & Andreas Larsson: “Creamy, broad and powerful, yet elegant”; “long, savory finish.” 

• 93 – Wine & Spirits Magazine