MV Henri Giraud Esprit, Ay Champagne

94 pts – Tyson Stelzer

70% pinot Noir, 30% chardonnay; fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged on lees for 1 year.

‘This invitingly rich, fruitful expression of Ay is a cracking entry point for Giraud, epitomizing the strawberry and red fruits of pinot noir, the crunch of fresh pear and apple, the sumptuous juiciness of white peach and the lemon zest of chardonnay. Its breath is pulled into tight focus on the finish by cut of citrus zest and lively acid. A characterful expression of the glories of Ay, trailing off with nuances of ginger, fruit mince spice and honey.’