Egly-Ouriet Les Vignes de Vrigny 1er Cru Brut Champagne

Based in the village of Ambonnay, this small estate claims 9.7 hectares of Grand Cru vineyards, mostly in Ambonnay (8ha), but also in Bouzy (0.3ha) and Verzenay (1.4ha). These vineyards are planted to 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. He also has a small (2ha) plot of 1er cru Pinot Meunier in the village of Vrigny. Throughout all the holdings, the vines average over forty five years of age.

Francis Egly is one of the most conscientious, skilled vignerons in the entire region, and his vinous, terroir-expressive Champagnes are unique and incredible. In order to preserve the integrity of the base wines as much as possible, all wines are unfined and unfiltered – a somewhat unusual practice in Champagne. Once the assemblage is complete, all wines spend a minimum of three years on their yeasts, often significantly longer, resulting in rich, full-bodied Champagnes. The date of disgorgement can always be found on the back label.