Description
Founded in 1894 by Arthur Agrapart, this outstanding estate in Avize acquired much of its present vineyardland during the 1950s and ’60s, thanks to Arthur’s grandson Pierre. Since 1984 it has been run by Pascal Agrapart and his brother Fabrice, who have taken the domaine to ever-greater heights, emphasizing natural viticulture and the expression of terroir. The Agraparts’ vineyards are spread over 62 parcels, the majority of which lie in the grand cru villages of Avize, Cramant, Oiry and Oger. Average vine age is about 35 years, with the oldest vines in Avize over 60years.
The Agrapart Mineral
The weight of the terroir value. An Extra Brut Champagne. Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru. A Vintage champagne
Always a vintage champagne, this cuvee comes from two selected vineyard blocks (Bionnes in CRAMANT and Champbouton in AVIZE) with the same geological profile. A thin layer of soil barely covering the chalk. Precise, savory, and saline, Minéral offers us the chalky dimension of the terroir. Disgorged 2 months before the release date and dosage limited at 3 grams of sugar per liter.
Tasting Notes
From Les Bionnes in Cramant (vinified in barrel) and Champbouton in Avize (vinified in tank), two parcels that share a similar geological profile, Agrapart’s 2016 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral offers up aromas of crisp stone fruits, wet stones, lemon oil and fresh mint. Full-bodied, satiny and vinous, with terrific texture and cut, it’s a vibrant, dynamic wine that’s worth a special effort to seek out. [95+ Points, William Kelley – August 2022, vinous.com]