Champagne Unlike
other appellations in France, in making a champagne the
winemaker is seeking style and not the ultimate expression
of the grapes in a particular vineyard. Champagnes are usually
an assembly of grapes and vintages that are delicately balanced
then aged for four years. The
Girault family in the Vallée de la Marne village of Dormans
makes a lovely, full-flavored Champagne that delighted us and rewarded
our search this year. The chalky soils of the Marne Valley provide
a unique environment for the vines and imbue the resultant Champagne
with an invigorating, fresh and clean style. Blended from Pinot
Meunier, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, the Girault Brut is exceptional!
Cepages:
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier
About
the Producer: Didier and Xavier Girault (father and
son) are the 4th and 5th generations, respectively, to pursue viticulture
in the champagne region. Located in the village of Dormans
in the Vallee de la Marne, the Giraults' champagne is derived from
the ten hectares of vines that they own.
Tasting
Notes: Brut is the
driest of the Champagne family. The blending of grapes in this Champagne
creates a delightful balance characterized as racy, rich
and lively with fruit. The bouquet is lively and refined
with the rich, creamy cherry and berry fullness of the Pinot grapes
which cascade over the palate with layers of delicacy. The
signature "Methode Champenoise" yields the yeast and nutty
nuances.
Recommended
Pairings: Romance. Or a great party.
This Champagne is fabulous as an aperatif and pairs well with almost
any hors d'oevres. As or with dessert, it is a show stopper.
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