Henri Giraud PR 90‑20 “Perpetual Reserve” NV

Winery Background and History

Henri Giraud is a prestigious, family-owned Champagne house in Aÿ with roots dating to the 17th century. It champions biodynamic viticulture, traditional barrel fermentation in Argonne oak, and a rare “solera-style” perpetual reserve system. PR 90‑20 showcases the depth, age, and continuity of this artisanal legacy. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Under Claude Giraud and cellar master Frédéric Mestelan (supported by Sébastien Le Golvet), base wines—70–80% fermented in oak with malolactic conversion—are blended with solera reserve wines dating from 1990 to 2020. The approach aims for richness, complexity, and structural finesse. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from Grand Cru Aÿ and Montagne de Reims, grown on east–southeast-facing chalk slopes moderated by the Marne River. The cool continental microclimate provides balanced acidity, purity, and distinctive mineral character under biodynamic management. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation occurs in 3–6-year-old Argonne oak barrels, followed by full malolactic fermentation. A solera system blends reserve wines from 1990–2020. The wine ages on lees in bottle for a minimum of three years post-disgorgement (Dec 2023) and is finished with a low Brut dosage of 5 g/L. 

Tasting Notes

Pale gold with vibrant mousse. Aromas of bread crust, grapefruit, dried orange peel, chalk, and clove. The palate is dry, focused, and saline, layered with hazelnut, brioche, sea-salt, and oyster-shell minerality. It finishes phenolic, tannic, and superbly long. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs brilliantly with shellfish (crab, lobster, oysters), ebi fry, sushi, goat cheese, and rich seafood dishes like lobster risotto or bread-and-butter pudding. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 8–10 °C in tulip or high-quality white-wine glasses to accentuate aromatics, texture, and minerality. No decanting needed.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best from 2024 through 2043–2044 with proper cellaring (12–14 °C, stable humidity). The perpetual reserve structure ensures graceful long-term evolution. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

80% Pinot Noir · 20% Chardonnay. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

~12.5% (standard for this cuvée). 

Scores

• 98 / 100 – The Wine Independent (PR 19–20) 

• 96 / 100 – James Suckling (July 2024) 

• 94 / 100 – Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate (Oct 2024)