TN: Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Ambonnay Champagne 1997

Posted by: BEB

TN: Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Ambonnay Champagne 1997 - 01-01-2023 06:46:27

What an unusual and amazing wine! When trying to determine the color, the words expressed were “peach”, “just this side of amber”, “golden-orange” and yet none of the words captured the true color whatsoever. The nose immediately exploded – no need for gently waking this beauty – with some slight oxidation, brioche, orange marmalade, orange blossom, hazelnut, some yeast. The mousse is mild, as would be expected, but the stream of bubbles – while not seamless – is nevertheless continuous. The bubbles themselves are minuscule; you have to focus to see them. A rich wine with bright acidity expressing exquisite balance. This is an almost haunting wine; it keeps pulling you back into the glass with something different each time, but never fully reveals itself. Definitely one of my top three wines of 2022. 100% Grand Cru from Ambonnay. Disgorged July 2002. Purchased on release. No sediment. 13% alc. With halibut under a crust of walnut & parsley in panko with a side of melted leek “hash” with roasted pancetta. The pairing was spectacular making for a Michelin star quality meal. New Year’s Eve 2022. Highly Recommended.