DE SAINT-GALL Orpale Blanc de Blancs 'Grand Cru' Millesime 2008 MAGNUM 12.2%abv (los)

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)"