2014 Henri Giraud Cuvee Argonne
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Tasting Notes
Made in tiny quantities (just 5,000 bottles), Argonne is named after the forest which epitomises the Henri Giraud wines. The base wine is matured in new barrels from these woods – hand-selected by Chef de Cave Sébastien le Golvet. After six years on lees, the wine develops tremendous depth, structure and intensity. The 2014 is subtle and finer-boned than some other releases, yet with remarkable purity and precision. It is muted at first – with an almost austere restraint when poured. With a little air, delicate aromas of sherbet, green apple, pastry, sugared almonds, chalky minerality and bright Amalfi lemon reveal themselves, complemented by freshly crumbled amaretti. The palate is firm but linear in structure, long and fine, driven by lemon pith and an iodine, almost ferrous, note that makes for a moreish, saline finish. The mousse is incredibly fine-textured, creamy with layers of crème pâtissière, flat white peach and wild strawberry. Precise and enchanting Champagne that will evolve beautifully in bottle. Blend: 90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay
Critic Scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Argonne is the most delicate, nuanced and sculpted version of this Champagne yet. Then again, this cool, late-ripening year yielded wines more of energy and understatement than of power. That's exactly what comes through here. Lemon confit, mint, spice, pastry and a kiss of French oak are all beautifully knit together. I won't be at all surprised if the 2014 gains body in time. Today, it is so evocative and beautiful, not to mention a fine effort in a very challenging year. Disgorged: December 10, 2021.
About the producer
Henri Giraud is one of the most exciting and pioneering Champagne houses today. Based in Äy, the property’s story begins in the early 17th century, when the Hémart family settled in the region.