The NV Champagne Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Les Crayères Vieilles Vignes (Base 2016, Disgorged July 2023) is one of Champagne’s most sought-after grower Champagnes and a benchmark Blanc de Noirs. Sourced from old-vine Pinot Noir planted in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay, the wine is fermented in barrel, aged extensively on lees and bottled with very low dosage, delivering extraordinary concentration, complexity and terroir expression. Egly-Ouriet is widely regarded as one of Champagne’s greatest estates, and Les Crayères is among its most iconic cuvées.
The nose is intensely layered with baked apple, pear, brioche, roasted hazelnut and citrus oil, alongside chalk, spice and subtle smoky nuances. The palate is rich and powerful yet remarkably precise, with a creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity and profound mineral tension. Flavours of orchard fruit, lemon curd, toasted almond and pastry complexity build through a long, saline and exceptionally persistent finish.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A world-class Blanc de Noirs that combines the power of old-vine Ambonnay Pinot Noir with incredible finesse and precision. Perfect with lobster, scallops, roast poultry, truffle dishes or simply on its own as a special occasion wine. Drink now with a short decant or cellar confidently for 15–20+ years as it develops even greater complexity and depth.
