Jacquesson Avize 1996 - Champagne Grand Cru Extra-Brut - Disgorged 2005

Jacquesson Avize Grand Cru Brut 1996 - The Pure Expression of Chalk

Presentation of Maison Jacquesson and History of the Cuvée

Jacquesson is a historic Champagne house that has made its mark with its innovative approach. This Avize Grand Cru cuvée is a pure expression of the Avize terroir. It is all the more precious as it was only produced for a short series of vintages (1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, 1997, and 2000) before being replaced by the single-vineyard cuvée "Avize Champ Caïn" from 2002 onwards. These "Avize Grand Cru" vintages are therefore highly sought-after historical pieces for collectors.

Avize Grand Cru: A Testament to the Historic Terroir

Avize is one of the most prestigious villages in the Côte des Blancs and a Grand Cru that is essential for Chardonnay. Its chalky soil is renowned for imparting a chalky minerality, purity, and elegant tension to the wines. This 1996 vintage, made from Chardonnay grapes grown in Avize vineyards, embodies the typicity of this cru, offering a precise structure and great finesse. The disappearance of this appellation underscores the uniqueness of this bottle within the evolution of the estate.

The 1996 Vintage: Legendary and Acidic

The 1996 vintage is universally recognized as one of the most brilliant in Champagne's recent history. Characterized by a hot, dry summer, it allowed for exceptional phenolic ripeness in the grapes while preserving a vibrant and structured acidity. The 1996 Jacquesson, with its ripe yet elegant acidity, is the perfect reflection of this year, offering great concentration and outstanding aging potential.

Details on the 1996 vintage: Extra-Brut and Late Disgorgement

This Champagne is a Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) vinified in oak casks and vats. The balance of this wine is enhanced by its low dosage (Extra-Brut):

• Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay Grand Cru.
• Disgorgement: June 2005 (after nearly 9 years on lees).
• Dosage: 3.5 g/l (Extra-Brut), allowing the terroir and minerality to fully express themselves.
• Tasting notes: It displays a beautiful tertiary complexity (salted macadamia nut, undergrowth, truffle), yet retains surprising vigor, great precision, and vibrant citrus notes (lemon). It is deep, mineral, and vinous.

Bottle Condition: Collector's Rarity

This bottle of Jacquesson Avize Grand Cru 1996 is a collector's item in very good condition:

• Format: 75 cl.
• Level & Drips: Perfect; no trace of drips.
• Label: Slightly torn
• Capsule: Intact.
• Overall condition: Excellent state of preservation.

Food & Wine Pairings and Tasting Tips

Serve chilled (10-12°C) in a wide white wine glass. Light decanting can help release its complex aromas. This gastronomic wine pairs wonderfully with:

• Noble crustaceans (lobster, langoustine).
• Caviar, salmon or fatty tuna.
• Poultry with morels or white meats.
• Mature cheeses (Ossau-Iraty, Comté).