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.
Serious and softly spoken, Pascal Agrapart is one of the Côte de Blancs’s finest vignerons, chiseled and powerful wines he produces from his organically farmed vineyards. Old vines, ripe grapes, alcoholic and malolactic fermentation with ambient microflora and élevage of vins clairs in tank and seasoned demi-muids are the rudiments of his approach.
Tasting Notes
Agrapart’s NV Brut 7 Crus wafts from the glass with scents of crisp green apple, freshly baked bread, white flowers and buttery pastry. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, it’s an ample, incisive wine, with racy acids and a saline finish. When the range begins like this, you know you’re in the presence of one of Champagne’s greatest producers. [93 Points, William Kelley – August 2022, robertparker.com]
