# Orpale Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut (2008)

- **Producer:** De Saint-Gall
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** 100% Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €135
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, peach, lime, acacia blossom, hawthorn, toast, butter, biscuit, brioche, fig, dried apricot, honey, toasted almond, hazelnut, gingerbread, white tobacco, quince, dried mango, smoky hints

## About this wine

Orpale Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut is the prestige cuvée from De Saint-Gall, a brand representing the Union Champagne cooperative. Produced exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from four Grand Cru villages in the Côte des Blancs (Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Cramant, and Avize), this Champagne is crafted only in exceptional years. The 2008 vintage is particularly noted for its outstanding structure and freshness, a testament to the unique growing conditions of that year. De Saint-Gall, established in 1966, is a collective of over two thousand winegrowers dedicated to upholding the art of Champagne production through a blend of tradition and modern techniques. Orpale is designed to be a 'bijou champagne' that truly expresses the chalky terroir of its origin.

## Interesting facts

- Orpale is De Saint-Gall's 'star' wine, released only in top vintages.
- Grapes are sourced from four specific Grand Cru villages in the Côte des Blancs.
- The 2008 vintage is considered a benchmark for Champagne.
- A portion of the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation to retain freshness.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through rich sauces and complements the natural sweetness of seafood. Its complexity and minerality provide a sophisticated counterpoint to delicate proteins and earthy flavors.

## Wine making process

Orpale Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut is meticulously crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced exclusively from four Grand Cru villages in the Côte des Blancs. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks. A key winemaking decision involves reserving a portion of the wine from malolactic fermentation to preserve its inherent mineral freshness and the distinct characteristics of the Côte des Blancs terroir. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for an extended period, a minimum of ten years, and potentially up to 12 years (144 months), on its lees in the cellars. This extended aging process is crucial for developing the wine's complexity, fine mousse, and integrated texture.