94+ The bright golden colored 2008 Aÿ Grand Cru Argonne Brut is what Henri Giraud calls "the diamond of our range, the best of the best of what we do". Based on 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay fermented and aged on the full lees for 12 months in Argonne oak barrels (of which 95% were new), the HG flagship cuvée opens with a clear, fresh, very fine, elegant and complex bouquet with matured fruit and brioche flavors. Highly elegant, round and fruity on the palate, this is a fine yet intense, matured, well-structured, complex and persistently salty 2008 that was disgorged in July 2017, after eight years on the second lees. 4.000 bottles made. Tasted April 2018. - SR

The 2008 Argonne is a rich, dense wine. A rush of crème brûlée, apricot jam, new French oak, almonds, candied orange peel, and hazelnut announce this dense, powerful Champagne. Tropical overtones add to the wine’s an exotic feel. Although there is not much subtlety, the 2008 will appeal to readers who appreciate flamboyant Champagnes. I am very interested to see how the 2008 ages. (Drink between 2018-2028) - AG

Richly aromatic, with lime blossom, graphite and oak spice notes on the nose accenting flavors of glazed apple and brioche. Soft and creamy, enlivened by well-knit, citrus peel acidity and the delicate zestiness of the mousse. Disgorged July 2017. Drink now through 2025. 333 cases made, 4 cases imported.