Gaston Chiquet 'Blanc de Blancs d' Aÿ' Brut

90

2020-04-30

The estate’s NV Brut Blanc de Blancs d’Ay is once again simply striking. An exotic melange of green pears, flowers, crushed rocks and jasmine emerge gracefully from this effortless, totally beguiling wine. The 2004 has an inner perfume and pure sweetness that is captivating. Ay is much more famous for its Pinot Noir, but Chiquet’s Chardonnay is flat-out gorgeous. Disgorgement date: February 2012. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018.

91

2019-10-31

A lively bead carries flavors of fresh-cut apple, biscuit, apricot and lemon curd in this firm and chalky blanc de blancs. The lightly smokey finish offers an echo of minerality. Drink now through 2018. -A.N.

92

2012-12-14

(made entirely from 2008 fruit; disgorged February, 2012): Pale straw. High-pitched aromas of lime and lemongrass, with chalky mineral and floral notes adding complexity. Taut, incisive citrus fruit and mineral flavors show impressive clarity and pick up notes of green apple and honeysuckle with air. Clean and nervy on the mineral-driven finish. - Josh Raynolds

91

2013-11-01

The NV Brut Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs d’Aÿ is beautifully focused and pointed. Sweet, layered and expressive, the Blanc de Blancs impresses for its balance and overall sense of harmony. The aromas and flavors are alive and perfumed throughout. Raspberry, lingonberry, white flowers and pears flow through to an inviting, crystalline finish supported by beams of minerality. This is another striking wine from Chiquet. Aÿ is Pinot country in Champagne, but Chiquet also excels with his Blanc de Blancs. The Blanc de Blancs is 100% Chardonnay, 2009 vintage, done in steel. This bottle was disgorged in December 2012.