Egly Ouriet Champagne Grand Cru Brut NV (R18 Disg Jul 2023)

Tasting Notes

This is a striking wine that reflects both the superb Grand Cru vineyards from which it is sourced (predominantly Ambonnay but also Bouzy and Verzenay), as well as the perfectionist viticulture and winemaking of Francis Egly. It’s made up of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay from low yielding vines that have been harvested fully ripe. Natural fermentation with wild yeasts only and the first period of maturation (before going to bottle) lasts almost one year with the wine remaining on its fine lees for the whole time. The wines clarify slowly and naturally, as was once typical across the region, and as such, there is no fining nor filtration. At least 50% of the wine is fermented and aged in oak casks and the dosage is tiny, around 4 g/L, so Extra Brut territory. It is the wine we receive the most of, although demand still well outstrips supply. The quality is, as always, out of this world. Make no mistake, even at this level, we are already soaring to remarkable heights of quality. If Egly made only this wine, he would still be one of the superstars of the Champagne region. Yes, the price has risen over the years, yet it remains a wine that easily backs up the price in the glass. It is perhaps confrontational to point out but it is nonetheless true – this is a wine that puts to shame many a prestige cuvée at considerably higher prices. - Importer Note