Henri Giraud Perpetual Reserve 90-19

The 100% solera-based PR 90-19 is an 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay blend. As with all the Giraud wines, it was barrel fermented in Argonne oak and has a minimum of 3 years on lees before disgorgement. This light rose-gold tinted wine is a vinous style of champagne that, except for two persistent columns of pin-head-sized bubbles, would easily fool the eye as a still wine. From an inch above the glass, the nose catches alluring notes of bruised apple, chestnut honey, orange blossom, and dried persimmon that slowly amplify in intensity to reveal a faint toastiness and whiff of salinity. The mouthfeel is luxuriously lithe and lively, built around a depth of concentrated fruit richness that is precisely fused with vibrant and supple acidity. The acid interplay is a stunner—like fluid energy tightly woven into condensed freshness. Not a single bubble pokes out of place. The 5g/l dosage puts this champagne in the extra brut territory, but all the fruit ripeness adds a lovely buoyancy to a long, clean finish. 8000 bottles were produced for sale. The Lot tasted here was disgorged on 13 January 2023. All disgorgement dates are etched on the bottle for full traceability.