Henriot L'inattendue Grand Cru - 2018 (750ml)

L’inattendue is an illustration of one of the principles of savoir-faire that has guided the House since its foundation: the cultivation of the diversity of Champagne terroirs. It reveals a terroir through a singular year and a unique grape variety.

“Henriot L’inattendue 2018 offers a generous, exotic, gourmet profile, particularly expressive, with the well-known characteristics of the Chouilly cru. The nose is powerful and elegant. It reveals fresh yellow fruit, pineapple, vanilla notes and a hint of petrol. The palate is ample, round, with a velvety texture and an extraordinary freshness that is unique for 2018, giving it great length.”

Alice Tétienne - Cellar Master of Maison Henriot

100% Chardonnay, 100% Grands Crus from the Terroir of the Côte des Blancs, vineyard of Chouilly

94 Wine Spectator

Rapierlike acidity defines this mineral-driven Champagne, which offers a firm, almost crunchy and refined mousse. An overtone of oyster shell and brine laces flavors of glazed apple, baked peach and financier, with accents of lemon curd, crystallized honey and pastry cream. There's an intriguing interplay between the rich profile and firm, focused structure. Drink now through 2038. 1,600 cases made, 160 cases imported.

93+ Robert Parker

The second iteration of this new cuvée from Henriot maintains the demonstrative and expressive style that is characteristic of this new cuvée. The 2018 Brut L'inattendue evokes aromas of peach, ripe orchard fruits and lemon intertwined with menthol notes and slightly smoky hints. Medium to full-bodied, enveloping and elegantly structured, it’s perfectly balanced with a vinous mid-palate and a long, mouthwatering and mineral finish. This is one of the most exciting cuvées from this house, which recently changed hands.

92 Decanter World Wine Awards

Great attack. Tangy lemon curd and grapefruit with brioche. Elegant and rounded with a fine mousse and citrus saline finish.