Fredrik Lindfors - Henri Giraud
12th of January 2022
Fredrik Lindfors, proud representative of the great swedish sommeliers dynasty
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For the first tasting article of the year, we decided to ask Fredrik Lindfors to taste a very special wine from Henri Giraud. Since about two years now, Fredrik decided to leave the restaurant "floor" to move to a different type of job position, working for a Swedish wine importer called "Ward wines" as product manager and responsible of the fine wines portfolio. His last experience as "pure" sommelier being at the astonishing "Grand Hotel" in Stockholm, as their Head Somm'.
Alongside his career, Fredrik has a very impressive list of tittles won during different sommeliers competitions. His 5th place at the "Best sommelier of the World" competition in 2019 was an outstandinc performance. Can't wait to see him back on the stage !
As mentioned above, the wine tasted by Fredrik for today's review is quite an unique cuvee from Henri Giraud, 100% Chardonnay from Ay. As you all know, Ay is known for having a terroir delivering amazing Pinot Noir and here is Henri Giraud's tour de force ! Creating an outstanding Blanc de Blanc from the chalky terroir of Ay ! We encourage everyone of you guys to try it out !
CHAMPAGNE HENRI GIRAUD
Blanc de Craie
Fredrik Lindford's tasting notes:
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Bright, straw colored core with small persistent bubbles and youthful appearance.
The nose is upfront and intriguing with multi-layered complexity and a broad spectrum of aromas. The oak fermentation in this Champagne gives hints of slightly oxidized, bruised yellow apples, marzipan and roasted almonds. Followed by more fresh notes of bright lemon zest, white peach and orange blossom.
The palate is refreshingly dry and crisp with a mouthwatering acidity and mineralic texture. The flavor profile is rich and this is a Blanc de Blancs with a great portion of weight and power. The effervescence is lively and intense with a lingering finish of pronounced chalky minerality.
This is a great Champagne to pair as an aperitif with panko-fried oysters but it’s also a great partner to elegant fish courses like sole fried in generous amounts of butter and served with beurre blanc sauce with chives and caviar.
TECHNICAL SHEET
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Varietal : 100% Chardonnay
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Location of the vineyard:
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Vallee de la Marne
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50% of the wine coming from Ay
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Soils : Chalk
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Made from 70% of reserve wine
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Winemaking:
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Harvest done manually
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Winemaking done in Oak barrels from 3 to 5 years
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Barrels made from wood coming from the Argonne forest in the Champagne region
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36 months on lees
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Dosage : 6 grs/L
