LeDomduVin: Champagne Henriot “L’Inattendue” Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2016

Champagne Henriot “L’Inattendue” Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2016

I have always loved Champagne Henriot. 

Even their entry-level "Brut Souverain NV" is always a delight for the taste buds. It is rich, generous, ample, well-balanced, and enjoyable for any occasion. It is one of my "go-to" Champagnes and a real steal at this price! 

But today, I would like to talk about their special Cuvée, "L'Inattendue" ("the unexpected"), which has been one of my favorite champagnes lately.

The idea behind the creation of this Cuvée was to exemplify one of the House's founding craftsmanship principles: highlighting the diverse terroirs of Champagne. As such, it reveals the unique characteristics of a specific terroir to a single-year and grape variety.

Crafted with 100% Chardonnay from the terroir of the Côte des Blancs in the Grands Crus vineyard of Avize, aged for at least four years, with a dosage of 4 g/L, the 2016 was their first vintage.

I opened this bottle recently, and it was superb. 

2016 Champagne Henriot “L’Inattendue” Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru

Beyond its pale, light golden color, the nose offers fresh, refined, elegant aromas of citrus fruit and minerality combined with stone fruit, floral, and light toasted nuances. The perfectly balanced and focused palate is extremely delicate and charming, with barely perceptible fine bubbles pearling on the tongue, leaving refreshing, chalky, and lemony sensations. The sharp acidity and zesty flavors expand gently until the lingering finish. 

Like a ballerina, it is a majestic expression of complexity, precision, elegance, and sophistication. 

Moreover, at around 110 Euros, it is an exceptional vintage champagne that can easily compete with some of the much better-known vintage champagnes worth four to five times more.

A Champagne that truly deserves its name "L"inattendue" to discover if you have not done it already. 

Cheers! Santé! 

Dom

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