Viniou Reviews
Agrapart & Fils “Cuvée 7 Crus” is a non-vintage Champagne originating from the prestigious Champagne AOC, in the heart of France’s historic winemaking region. Crafted as a blanc de blancs, this cuvée is composed exclusively of Chardonnay, sourced from seven carefully selected villages (hence the name “7 Crus”). The vinification follows the traditional method, involving a second fermentation in bottle, giving the wine its distinct, fine bubbles. Being labelled as Extra-Brut, it is notably dry, allowing the expression of pure fruit and terroir with minimal dosage added. The blend, with its focus on Chardonnay from both grand cru and premier cru vineyards, exudes finesse, tension, and mineral-driven complexity.
Champagne, as a region, benefits from a cool continental climate with marked seasonal contrasts. This ensures slow, steady ripening of the grapes, which preserves acidity and results in wines of freshness and longevity. The diverse soils, particularly the chalky subsoil famous in Champagne, contribute to the minerality and vibrant character of the wines. The Agrapart family, based in Avize in the Côte des Blancs, is recognised for their meticulous vineyard work and focus on expressing distinct vineyard personalities in their wines, often practising organic and low-intervention agriculture long before it became fashionable.
With its brisk structure, refined mousse, and citrusy, chalky profile, the Cuvée 7 Crus pairs beautifully with delicate seafood dishes—think oysters, scallops carpaccio or sashimi. It also shines alongside fine white fish with a beurre blanc sauce, or regional delicacies like gougères (cheese puffs) and Comté cheese. For a classic local pairing, enjoy it with the simplicity of freshly baked baguette and a sliver of Brie de Meaux.
To best appreciate its freshness and verve, serve this Champagne well-chilled, ideally between 6 and 8°C. Pour gently into tulip-shaped glasses rather than classic flutes to better concentrate its aromas and enjoy its full aromatic spectrum.
