Gimonnet-Gonet Terre de Oiry Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2016

Gimonnet-Gonet’s Terre de Oiry Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is a deeply expressive, site-driven Champagne sourced exclusively from old-vine Chardonnay rooted in the pure chalk soils of Oiry, a benchmark Grand Cru village of the Côte des Blancs. Produced by Gimonnet-Gonet, the fruit is hand-harvested and gently pressed to retain only the finest cuvée juice, then fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve clarity and tension. Malolactic fermentation is typically permitted, lending a soft polish and balance to the wine’s naturally vibrant acidity. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle, followed by extended lees aging, often five years or more, which builds a refined mousse and layered texture without obscuring the wine’s mineral spine. On the nose, the wine is crystalline and lifted, opening with zesty Meyer lemon curd, green apple skin, and white peach, followed by subtle notes of acacia blossom, almond skin, and freshly crushed chalk. The palate is taut and precise, with a fine, persistent bead and a distinctly saline, chalk-dust minerality that fans out across the mid-palate. Hints of brioche, pastry cream, and toasted hazelnut emerge with air, adding quiet depth while the finish remains long, linear, and mouthwatering. Elegant yet quietly powerful, Terre de Oiry is a Champagne of poise and persistence that’s equally compelling as a focused aperitif/digestif or alongside oysters, crudo, caviar, or other refined dishes that complement the pronounced minerality.