Ageius Aÿ Grand Cru Brut 2017 (0.75l)

Here we have a single-varietal Pinot Noir from the Grand Vallée de la Marne in the glass. Matured in 400-liter tonneaux, the grapes were from 2017, and disgorged in January 2023. The nose is intense, even explosive. At first, there's hardly any fruit, but instead, oyster shell, wet stone, herbs, and black bread. Gradually, ripe apples and a hint of grapefruit peel become noticeable. A pleasant, constantly changing oxidative nose that's certainly worth savouring for a while. The palate is no less spectacular: incredible saltiness, the association of seabed, sea urchins, and more oysters (a subtle hint of a possible food pairing). The perlage is extremely fine, foaming up briskly for a short time and then quickly calming down to allow the wine to develop. A truly perfect interplay of components – subtle citrus aromas supported by a salty-iodine carpet in which herbs and yeast are interwoven. Exciting and crisp, yet simultaneously smooth and with a certain opulence. This isn't a champagne you'd just open for a toast. It requires time, concentration, and leisure to explore and understand this masterpiece. Simply magnificent, and a champagne that truly lives up to its Grand Cru title!