Egly-Ouriet Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayeres NV Champagne
Egly-Ouriet Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayeres NV Champagne stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of the Egly-Ouriet family in crafting exceptional Champagnes. From the revered Grand Cru vineyards in Les Crayeres, this Blanc de Noirs showcases the depth and intensity that Pinot Noir, the exclusive grape varietal in this cuvée, can achieve in the hands of master winemakers.
Winemaker Notes
This is what Champagne from Reims used to be like 100 years ago, Francis Egly told us, before timid winemakers started cutting their cuvées with Chardonnay. This single-vineyard Champagne from the noblest of terroirs in Ambonnay is 100% Pinot Noir from 70-year-old vines; the wine spends 51 months on its lees, and is fermented in barrel. "Crayeres" covers itself with the thinest of Champagne soil, yet its heart is pure, solid chalk. The nose is a sensual feast—cinnamon and cardamom; the zest of lemons and limes; candied ginger, cherries and crushed stones. Lush and almost thick on the palate, "Crayeres" shows notes of currants and strawberries, reminding of a still red wine. This is truly the benchmark for all great Pinot Noir Champagne—perhaps for all Champagne.
Tasting Notes
In the glass, this Champagne unveils a golden hue with subtle hints of amber, reflecting its maturity. The nose is a captivating dance of aromas—ripe red berries, toasted brioche, and a delicate floral fragrance. On the palate, the wine displays a remarkable depth of flavor—raspberries, black cherries, and a nuanced minerality. The fine, persistent bubbles contribute to a creamy texture, while the finish is long-lasting, echoing notes of hazelnuts and a touch of citrus zest.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate the nuances of Egly-Ouriet Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayeres, serve it chilled in a flute or tulip-shaped Champagne glass. Allow the wine to breathe for a few moments to reveal its intricate bouquet. This Champagne is perfect for celebrations and special occasions, but its complexity also makes it a fantastic choice for moments of quiet reflection and appreciation.
Food Pairing
Pair this Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Champagne with a range of gourmet dishes. Its structure and intensity make it an ideal companion for rich and flavorful dishes such as truffle risotto, roasted duck, or a decadent lobster thermidor. For a sublime pairing, enjoy it with creamy, triple-cream cheeses like Brillat-Savarin or Delice de Bourgogne, allowing the Champagne to harmonize with the luscious texture of the cheese.
Overall
Egly-Ouriet Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayeres NV Champagne is a jewel in the world of Champagne, offering a sublime experience for those who seek the pinnacle of elegance and complexity. The marriage of Grand Cru terroir and the skillful blending of Pinot Noir create a Champagne that transcends expectations. Whether shared among enthusiasts or savored in solitude, Egly-Ouriet Blanc de Noirs is an ode to the art of winemaking—a masterpiece that reflects the essence of its prestigious origins and the mastery of its creators.
Professional Ratings
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98 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A blend of the 2015 and 2014 vintages, Egly's emblematic NV Brut Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayères was disgorged this year with only one gram per liter dosage. Bursting with aromas of mirabelle plum, Anjou pear and green apple mingled with notions of freshly baked bread, honeycomb and praline, it's full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, its satiny attack segueing into a deep, layered mid-palate of striking texture and concentration. Concluding with a long, intensely saline finish, it's another brilliant wine from a great producer at the top of his form.
Rating: 98+
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94 Vinous
The NV (2014) Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru is a classic Egly Champagne that marries vinous fruit density, energy and the complexity that comes after six years on the lees. The 2014 shows lovely aromatic complexity of these Pinots in Ambonnay's Crayères lieu-dit, and yet remains quite youthful and taut in feel. Pear, slate, crushed rocks, white pepper and tangerine oil lead into the deep, sculpted finish. The blend of 60% 2014 and 2013%, both late-ripening vintages, works so well here. Dosage is 2 gram per liter. Disgorged: July, 2021.