Champagne Henri Giraud Esprit de Giraud Brut NV
“This may be the finest Champagne house virtually no one has ever heard of.”
Robert Parker
“Claude Giraud makes some of the most unique, individualistic wines in Champagne. All of the wines bear the unmistakable stamp of the Grand Cru vineyards of Ay. The top selections (Code Noir and Fut de Chene) are vinified and aged in oak, which plays an important role in shaping many of the finest wines here. At their best, the Giraud Champagnes offer incredible intensity, class and balance.” Robert Parker
“This [Brut] is a fabulous non-vintage champagne from Henri Giraud. A very elegant nose with hints of honeysuckle and hazelnut. Firm, precise entry, racy acidity, very well balanced with a lively, almost peppery finish that is imbued with impressive harmony and definition. Wonderful – if only all non-vintage champagnes could be like this.” Jancis Robinson
It's the oldest Champagne house still owned by the founding family and until recent times were only selling their wares direct to a small number of private customers in France and Italy. Perhaps due to difficult economic times, they released their wares to the world and what a reception they've had. Robert Parker commented "This may be the finest Champagne house virtually no one has ever heard of." If that wasn’t enough to wet your appetitie, Jancis Robinson wrote “Wonderful – if only all non-vintage champagnes could be like this." Upon tasting this Champagne, the world's biggest wine scribes are singing the praises and despite the fact you too probably haven't heard of them, we think you won't be disappointed if you take a punt.
The initial crispness quickly gives way as the overall wine flavour opens out. Its body, consistence and even fullness give the wine its structure. The mineral notes and light tannins contribute to a long, winey, and warm finish with a silky harshness over aromas of bitter almonds and biscuit.