One of the most distinguished cuvées from Egly-Ouriet, “V.P.” stands for Vieillissement Prolongé, or “extended aging.” This exceptional grower Champagne spends more than seven years resting on its fine lees before disgorgement—considerably longer than most non-vintage Champagnes and even many vintage bottlings. The extended maturation creates ...Show More >
One of the most distinguished cuvées from Egly-Ouriet, “V.P.” stands for Vieillissement Prolongé, or “extended aging.” This exceptional grower Champagne spends more than seven years resting on its fine lees before disgorgement—considerably longer than most non-vintage Champagnes and even many vintage bottlings. The extended maturation creates remarkable depth, complexity and a beautifully integrated texture.
The blend is approximately 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, drawn from Grand Cru vineyards in Ambonnay, Bouzy and Verzenay. The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak. A very low dosage preserves the wine’s natural energy, precision and distinctly chalky character, while bottling without fining or filtration retains its concentration and personality. Exact base vintages, dosage and disgorgement dates may vary by release.
Rich and vinous, yet exceptionally focused, the Champagne opens with aromas of red apple, spiced pear, yellow peach and blood orange, followed by toasted brioche, roasted nuts, baking spices and subtle floral notes. The palate is full and layered, with a fine, creamy mousse balanced by vibrant citrus acidity and pronounced mineral tension. Notes of ginger, orchard fruit, toasted bread and crushed chalk carry through the exceptionally long, saline finish.
Powerful enough to accompany an entire meal, this is superb with scallops, lobster, crab, roasted poultry, duck, mushroom risotto, aged Comté or other firm, nutty cheeses. It is impressive upon release but possesses the structure, freshness and concentration to develop beautifully with additional bottle age.
< Show Less
