Egly-Ouriet Coteaux Champenois Ambonnay Rouge Grands Côtes 2019

96 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(Single parcel of four plots of mid-slope Ambonnay old vines in an amphitheatre; low yields of just 35-40hL/hectare; 50% whole bunches; vinified and aged for 18–22 months entirely in oak barrels; just 10-12 barrels each vintage; 3000 bottles). From a plot of very old pinot noir vines in a sun-catching amphitheatre on the mid-slope of Ambonnay, Francis Egly produces the finest Coteaux Champenois in all of Champagne. The warm vintages of recent years have gone further, conjuring some of the greatest pinot noirs on earth outside of the fabled grand crus of Burgundy itself - the first Coteaux Champenois that I have ever seen achieve true grand cru heights, by lofty Burgundian standards. 2019 brims with perfectly ripe red cherry and red berry fruits, white pepper and layers of violets and floral spice. The effortless poise and balance of ripeness is impeccable here. Fine chalk minerality is fantastically textured and present, yet gracefully integrated with fine-grained tannins. The complexity of more whole bunches than usual gives subtle exoticism and heightens the floral lift, without in any way interrupting or jarring its effortless flow and seamless line and length. Sensational rose petal lift graces the bouquet and palate from start to very long finish. With effortless poise and elegant, ethereal grace, this is one of the greats from Francis Egly. (Edition VII; 2024)"

96 points La Revue du Vin de France: "Let's conclude with the Coteaux-Champenois, of an exceptional concentration, enveloped by a seductive woody richness. Phenomenal power and depth come together in this northern Pinot that has the stuff of the greatest. (2022)"