The Champagne Hélène Avize Blanc de Blancs Vieilles Vignes Extra Brut 2017 is a refined and elegant Chardonnay-based Champagne from the Grand Cru village of Avize in the Côte des Blancs. Crafted from old vines, this cuvée reflects the meticulous attention to detail and sustainable practices of the Hugot family, whose winemaking heritage dates back to 1891. The 2017 vintage was vinified with native fermentation in a combination of tanks and barrels and underwent extended aging on lees. Disgorged in October 2023 with a minimal dosage of 2 g/L, this Extra Brut Champagne epitomizes precision and purity.

On the nose, it reveals a delicate bouquet of lemon zest, green apple, and chalk, complemented by subtle floral notes and a touch of brioche. On the palate, it is finely structured and vibrant, with crisp acidity balancing a creamy texture. Flavors of citrus and orchard fruits are enhanced by a pronounced saline minerality, leading to a long, elegant finish that reflects the unique chalky soils of Avize.

This Blanc de Blancs pairs beautifully with oysters, seared scallops, or sushi, and its freshness and complexity also make it an excellent match for creamy cheeses like Brie or Chaource. While accessible now for its lively fruit and precise structure, the Champagne Hélène Avize Blanc de Blancs Vieilles Vignes Extra Brut 2017 will benefit from 5–7 years of cellaring, developing further depth and nuance. It is a stunning representation of Grand Cru Champagne and a testament to the Hugot family’s legacy of excellence.