The rise in quality and reputation of this house can be attributed to one man, Francis Egly. Named after the founder of the estate from three generations prior, Francis has guided Egly-Ouriet’s transformation – taking it from obscure grower house, to the pre-eminent Grower Champagne house it is today. Francis farms organically, and harvests the grapes by hand at full ripeness to ensure his vinous style that famed Champagne critic Peter Liem calls “Burgundy with bubbles.” And it truly is just that. I don’t know how Francis does what he does, but he does it.

“Make no mistake about it, [Egly-Ouriet] is at the very top of the pecking order in Champagne today.” – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

Adding to their prestige, Egly-Ouriet produced the second-ever 100-point Champagne (and first ever for a “grower”!) in Wine Advocate history! Egly's practice of harvesting very ripe grapes and aging in barrels for years longer than almost any other Champagne house are some of the practices that set his art apart from the rest. This is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay from the Grand Cru villages of Ambonnay, Verzenay, and Bouzy, and it undergoes extended aging, spending over 7 years on the lees and resulting in its distinguished Vieillissement Prolongé title.

This V.P. is truly one of Egly’s most exceptional bottlings. Opening with enticing aromas of ripe peaches, apple pie, lemon meringue, and subtle notes of roasted almonds, on the palate, it reveals rich flavors of even more baked apple, honeyed citrus, and a touch of spring flowers and dried fruit, complemented by a refreshing mineral backbone. The mouthfeel is creamy and rounded, with fine, persistent bubbles that add elegance, while the wine finishes with a long, structured, and slightly saline note. For the history, the quality, and the artistry housed in each one of these bottles, it’s a wonder to have a handful of mags for our price! Do yourself a favor and add this exceptional wine to your collection before it’s too late!