Henri Giraud Fut de Chene MV13 (750ML)

96 Points, William Kelley, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "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." 08/19

97 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The MV 13 Brut Fût de Chêne is one of the most riveting wines I have ever tasted at Henri Giraud. Rich and spherical, with tremendous textural resonance, the 2013 possesses off the charts intensity in every direction. White flowers, smoke, crushed rocks and citrus build into the intense, palate-staining finish. The imprint of the house style is very strong in all of these wines, but the 2013 stands out for its explosive vertical lift and vibrancy. Simply put, the 2013 is a new benchmark wine for Henri Giraud. It is a flat-out stunning wine that Giraud fans will absolutely not want to miss. Disgorged: March 20, 2018." 07/19