Grand Cru Extra Brut

"Make no mistake about it, though, these wines are at the very top of the pecking order in Champagne today." - Antonio Galloni on Champagne Egly-Ouriet

Among the first producers to emerge in the grower Champagne movement, fourth generation winemaker Francis Egly's is considered by many to be the finest grower in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay.

Francis took over from his father Michel in 1980, with the intent and commitment to take these already revered Pinot Noir dominant Champagnes to the absolute apex of quality. He began using organic methods in the vineyards, with regular ploughing, and reduced yields. Once the grapes enter his cellar, Francis makes sure to only allow for the gentlest possible extraction, of which he only keeps the purest first pressing. He believes deeply that complexity and structure comes not only from perfect fruit, but also from extended lees aging, and this belief is felt throughout his lineup, with most of his wines undergoing a minimum of 48 months on the lees but some cuvees being aged for more than 100 months.

An incredible wine full of soul, the Grand Cru bottling is produced from 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, produced solely from Grand Cru villages in Champagne: Ambonnay (90%), Bouzy and Verzenay (10%). More akin to a vintage champagne than non-vintage, this wine is generously structured, and will reveal itself over the coming years or decades. Chalky with strawberries, spiced apples, honeysuckle, ginger, lemons, apricots, and pastries, with a medium to full body, this wine is incredibly concentrated. 

A dramatic and elegant Champagne from one of the great producers in the region.

'18 Vintage Base Wine, Disgorged July 2023

12.5% ABV