Henri Giraud Argonne 2016

The Argonne 2016 is terrific. What a surprise. For a vintage that was once seen very dimly, the 2016 Argonne is superb. This is essentially a white wine with bubbles completely enrobed within its frame. Apricot, orange peel, crème brulée, pastry and a kiss of French oak unfurl in the glass. Readers will find a voluptuous, vinous Champagne that hits all the right notes.

This is a powerful but elegant wine with a wealth of citrus-fruit freshness, blood orange and grapefruit, as well as toast, dried citrus blossom, white lavender, clove, cardamom and spices. Tense and driven, with so much mineral freshness and focus. Very tight bead of bubbles. Endless finish. This will age incredibly well, but you are want to drink it right away. Try after 2026.

The 2016 Brut Grand Cru Aÿ Argonne stands as the pinnacle of superb releases from Champagne Henri Giraud. Evoking aromas of apricot, mirabelle, licorice, anise, ripe orchard fruits and spices, it's full-bodied, rich and vinous, with a deep, concentrated core of fruit and sappy acids, concluding with a long, penetrating, racy finish enhanced by aromas of gentian and sweet spices. A blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay from the grand cru village of Aÿ, vinified and matured in barrels, it was disgorged in February 2023. Kudos! Drinking window: 2024-2050