Henriot L'inattendue 2016 Blanc de Blancs

Created by the 8th generation of the Henriot family, represented by Gilles de Larouzière Henriot, L'inattendue (The Unexpected) is an illustration of one of the principles of savoir-faire carried out by the House since its foundation by Apolline Henriot in 1808: the cultivation of diversity and beauty within the Champagne terroirs. This cuvée reveals a terroir through a singular year and a unique grape variety.

From the Cellar Master, Alice Tétienne: "This cuvée cannot leave one indifferent. The aromatic profile is precise, fine, chiselled. It’s a real statement. Minerality and citrus fruit dominate. Indeed, it is chalky, ethereal and the fresh lemon expresses itself, accompanied by mentholated notes. In the mouth, it is a perfect coherence. This one is straight, tracing. Intensity and precision guide the taste perception."

Pale to medium gold, with a fine bead. On the nose the wine is pure, fresh, fine, beautifully detailed with citrus fruit, chalky fresh with a slight smoky edge, oyster shell, crushed rocks with some savoury notes of lemon shortbread and fresh nuts.

The palate is clean, bright, crisp with a lovely weight and balance in the mouth. Notes of citrus complemented by a ripeness and roundness of the fruit which has a lick of fresh butter.

"Slightly smoky, bolstered by a chalky touch to the flint-accented nose which expresses an array of white and citrus fruit, as well as an enticing floral component. The mouthfeel has crystalline purity and is finely balanced, with citrussy acidity that delivers freshness and lift on the chalk-textured, flower-infused finish. Just the right amount of refreshing bitterness makes this an ideal partner for gastronomic dishes. Malolactic fermentation is de rigueur for Henriot. Ageing on lees before bottling was carried out in stainless steel. Dosage of 4g/l and disgorged in June 2021." 94/100 - Yohan Castaing, Decanter

Champagne Henriot was founded in 1808 and Henriot has remained a family affair since then, which is increasingly rare in Champagne. It’s important to look closely at one particular individual as his achievements define the house today. Joseph Henriot, joined the family business in 1957 and after his father’s untimely death in 1962, he took over the reins and became the energy and entrepreneurial spirit behind the rise and success of the house.

Henriot have their eyes firmly set on what they describe as ‘craftsman luxury’.

They aim to create high quality champagne to a dedicated following of Henriot Champagne lovers. They focus their energies on the chardonnay variety and apart from the brut souverain they do not use pinot meunier anywhere else.

100% Chardonnay from the Grand Cru terroir of Avize.
Minimum years ageing. Dosage 4 g/L.

Can be enjoyed now if you appreciate bright mineral tastes, but can be left to rest for another 5-10 years.

Would pair well with cured salty meats, soft and hard cheeses with honey and fruits. Perhaps something more substantial like duck or poached salmon with root vegetables and sweet potato wedges should be your go to. Or try butted popcorn as an unconventional, but unexpected delight!