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Henriot 1996 Cuvée des Echanteleleurs

Just a wonderful Champagne which is drinking beautifully right now. It has stamina to keep for some more years, but the quality is probably peaking right now. We found this magnum in a local wineshop which was also kind enough to lend us proper Champagne glasses as well.

The quintessence of the Henriot style, this cuvée is dominated by the chardonnay giving elegance and complex structure. In respect with the family tradition, this cuvée, from the finest vineyards in Champagne, is only produced in exceptional years.

 To enhance the remarkable character of the 1996 vintage, Champagne Henriot has blended the strength of the pinot noir and the elegance of the chardonnay. We have chosen grapes from 6 of the most prestigious “grands crus” in Champagne : Mailly Champagne, Verzy, Verzenay on Montagne de Reims, Mesnil-sur-Oger, Avize, Chouilly on Côte des Blancs.  50% chardonnay - 50% pinot noir

On the eye: Pale gold with attractive cordon of mousse.
On the nose: Discreet notes of candied citrus, hazelnut and pastries enhance a bouquet dominated by honey. The nose is ripe, very fine, a sign of attractive aromatic evolution.
On the palate: This mature, well balanced, elegant wine has a lively, frank attack typical of the great vintages. Roasted, toasty aromas, butter and pastry together with fragrances of citrus and wild peach create rich, aromatic complexity leading on to flavours of honey and delicate exotic notes. The length is superb with aromas of pastries, fine touches of hazelnut and honey to complete this magnificent “cuvee”.

Henriot Cuvee des Echanteleleurs 1996
2600 nok for a magnum or ca 300€

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