Henri Giraud 2012 Argonne Ay Brut Rosé Grand Cru Champagne

This 2012 vintage of the Argonne Grand Cru Rosé from Henri Giraud is a rare and distinguished Champagne: elegant yet expressive, richly textured though refined. With its copper-rosé hue, fine bubbles and layered flavour profile, it offers both immediate pleasure and serious age-worthy potential.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Crafted in the Grand Cru village of Aÿ in the Champagne region of France, this cuvée comes from premium vines owned or managed by Henri Giraud. What sets it apart is the house’s unique practice of ageing part of the wine in oak barrels made from Argonne forest oak, which imparts subtle structure, complexity and wood-derived nuance. The 2012 vintage is composed predominantly of Pinot Noir (around 90%) with a smaller portion of Chardonnay (around 10%), reflecting the richness and depth possible in top-tier Grand Cru terroir. The wine underwent extended ageing on its lees before disgorgement, and is released in limited quantities—adding to its prestige and collectability.

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Copper-tinged in the glass, the bouquet opens with vivid orchard and stone fruit—pear, white peach, dried orange rind—alongside red-berry accents and floral touches of rosehip or wild strawberry. Underneath lies subtle savoury complexity: white pepper, biscuit crust, gentle toast and a hint of rusted iron mineral.

• Palate: Medium-to-full body for a rosé Champagne; the flavour begins with juicy red-berry compote (raspberry, cherry), transitioning into richer echoes of marmalade, almond paste and honeyed brioche. There is a hint of oak-spice (light cinnamon or clove) and a mineral thread that balances the richness. The mousse is fine-beaded and the texture polished.

• Finish: Long and graceful—lingering notes of brioche, citrus peel, toasted almond and a saline-mineral echo give a refined dry edge. The aftertaste leaves a sense of elegance and tension, suggesting further evolution with age.

Quick Overview