A masterwork of Côte des Blancs terroir, the 2016 Special Club Grands Terroirs de Chardonnay represents Pierre Gimonnet's most prestigious cuvée—a blanc de blancs of extraordinary depth and complexity from one of Champagne's most revered grower estates.
Critical Acclaim
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96 Points - James Suckling: "Fantastic aromatic complexity...creamy, sleek and lay...Show More >
A masterwork of Côte des Blancs terroir, the 2016 Special Club Grands Terroirs de Chardonnay represents Pierre Gimonnet's most prestigious cuvée—a blanc de blancs of extraordinary depth and complexity from one of Champagne's most revered grower estates.
Critical Acclaim
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96 Points - James Suckling: "Fantastic aromatic complexity...creamy, sleek and layered. Very soft and fine bubbles."
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95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck: "Rounded and attractive...elegant mousse, soft texture of citrus oil, and clean, chalky finish."
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93 Points - Wine Advocate: "Full-bodied and concentrated...admirably consistent and age-worthy cuvée."
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93 Points - Wine Spectator: "Compact and well-integrated...racy acidity and intensity. Drink now through 2036."
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92 Points - Vinous: "Bright and focused, with terrific depth...an absolute delight."
Vineyard & Winemaking
- 100% Chardonnay from Grand Cru and Premier Cru parcels
- 58% Cramant Grand Cru (Buissons, Bateau, Gros Mont, Champ du Prévôt)
- 27% Chouilly Grand Cru (Mont Aigu)
- 15% Cuis Premier Cru (Roualles, Croix-Blanche)
- Includes fruit from vines planted in 1911 and 1913, worked with horses
- Pure chalk terroir expressing classic Côte des Blancs minerality
- Malolactic fermentation completed
- Fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve purity
- Aged 60+ months on the lees
- Disgorged 2023-2024 | Dosage: 4-5g/L (Extra Brut)
Tasting Profile
Shimmering golden hue with persistent, fine bubbles. The nose reveals extraordinary aromatic complexity: walnut, quince, dried apricot, white cocoa, fresh-baked croissant, citrus zest, white flowers, and hazelnut. On the palate, it's creamy yet vibrant—layers of honeyed green apple, lemon oil, juicy peach and pear, blanched almond, and tangerine unfold with elegant mousse and soft texture. The finish is long, caressing, and mineral-driven with racy acidity and chalky precision. This is a Champagne of remarkable balance: approachable now yet built for extended aging through 2036 and beyond.
Perfect Pairings
Serve chilled (45-50°F) with grilled scallops, lobster risotto, Dover sole meunière, roasted chicken with herbs, creamy aged cheeses (Comté, aged Gruyère), or simply on its own as an aperitif. This is Champagne for connoisseurs—a wine that rewards contemplation and elevates any celebration.
Special Club is an elite designation reserved for Champagne's finest grower-producers, representing the pinnacle of their craft. Only 250 cases imported to the US.
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