The 2018 Champagne Pascal Agrapart Grand Cru Avizoise Blanc de Blancs is a prestigious single-vineyard Chardonnay from Avize on the Côte des Blancs, made from old vines planted in 1930. The vineyard’s chalk-rich soils and south-facing exposure give the wine remarkable concentration, while the cooler Grand Cru terroir preserves freshness and mineral precision. The 2018 vintage shows ripe lemon, white peach and green apple alongside citrus peel, white flowers, toasted almond, brioche and subtle chalky notes. Disgorged in July 2024, extended lees ageing has added further depth and texture.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and beautifully layered, with vibrant acidity, fine persistent bubbles and a rich core of citrus, orchard fruit and ripe stone fruit. Lemon and white peach are complemented by green apple, citrus peel, almond and delicate brioche, while a pronounced chalky and saline mineral character provides tension and length. The old vines contribute impressive concentration and depth, while restrained oak and lees-derived texture add savoury complexity without overpowering the purity of the Chardonnay. The finish is exceptionally long, dry and persistent, with lingering citrus, toasted almond, chalk and saline mineral notes.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for serious Champagne collectors and Blanc de Blancs enthusiasts seeking Grand Cru Chardonnay with depth, precision and long-term ageing potential. The 2018 vintage is drinking beautifully now, but its acidity, old-vine concentration and mineral structure should allow further honeyed, nutty and savoury complexity to develop. Best enjoyed now or over the next 8–15 years. Serve chilled with oysters, seared scallops with brown butter, butter-poached marron, grilled turbot with beurre blanc, lobster, or aged Comté.
