Disgorged in March 2020, Giraud's newly released NV Brut Grand Cru Aÿ Fût de Chêne MV15 is terrific, bursting from the glass with aromas of pear, orange oil and peach mingled with nuances of warm pastry, toasted almonds, beeswax and clear honey that's already very nicely integrated. Full-bodied, textural and concentrated, this is a deep and muscular Champagne, with striking structure and vinosity, underpinned by lively acids and complemented by a pinpoint mousse. (Guide Parker, millésime 2015, noté 96/100)
Disgorged in November 2017, the finest Champagne that I have ever tasted from Giraud is the NV Brut Grand Cru Aÿ Fût de Chêne MV13, a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay that's based on the 2013 vintage, supplemented by fully 40% older wine from a perpetual reserve. Wafting from the glass with a rich bouquet of buttered yellow orchard fruits, brioche, dried white flowers, peach, orange rind and smoke, complemented by some delicate oxidative top notes, it's full-bodied, broad and vinous, with an enveloping attack, a deep and layered core, lively acids and a long, sapid finish. While the vins clairs spent a year in oak, the wood influence is much more discrete than has sometimes been the case with Giraud's wines, contributing texture and a gentle aromatic patina but remaining in a supporting role. Powerful but precise, this is a terrific effort that comes warmly recommended. (Guide Parker, millésime 2015, noté 96/100)
