DE SAINT-GALL 'Orpale' Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Millesime 2008 Bottle

Description

Orpale is the Prestige Cuvée from Champagne de Saint Gall, made from Grand Cru vineyards in the Cotes de Blancs of Mesnil-Sur-Oger, Cramant, Avize, and Oger. The wine is aged on its lees for 12 years, disgorged in May 2020 and is the drier side of Brut with 7 grams per litre. This is a stunning Blanc de Blancs.

97 points/'Platinum Award,' Decanter: "100% Chardonnay. Quite toasty nose showing aromas of bruised apple, figs, toast and subtle hints of smoke. Seductive and refined on the palate, showing tension and finesse. Very harmonious, with a vibrant acidity and persistent finish. Alcohol 12.2%. (DWWA 2023)"

95 points Tom Hewson (TimAtkin.com): "(The in-house label of the Union Champagne co-op in Avize). Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs. Orpale should certainly belong in the same conversation as other better-known prestige Blanc de Blancs. The 2008 is now a decadent treat, with piles of toasted brazil nut and super ripe lemon confit, as well as plushness from cocoa and nougat, tropical headiness from jackfruit and grilled pineapple and a proper Côte des Blancs sense of daring intensity. It's not austere for 2008, but rather succulent and built to last. (2022)"