Tasting Notes
Vinous 94
(a 50/50 blend of chardonnay and pinot noir, all from grand cru vineyards; L0909920608) Vivid yellow-gold. Kaleidoscopic aromas of citrus fruits, poached pear, mango, lees and licorice, with slow-building florality. Supple, palate-coating orchard and exotic fruit flavors are complicated by notes of herbs and buttered toast, with a smoky quality in the background. Seems younger than it did last year, showing excellent finishing clarity and persistent smoke and spice character. This really won’t let go of the palate, which is fine by me. I’d still hold this.
Wine Advocate 92
The 1996 Brut Cuvee des Enchanteleurs is one of the softer, more forward 1996s readers are likely to come across. Smoke, cantaloupe, pear, flowers, mint, sweet baking spices and apricots are some of the notes that emerge from this layered, sublime Champagne. The finish is long and polished. The 1996 Enchanteleurs is drinking beautifully today, but also appears to have the stuffing to age gracefully for at least another decade. Disgorged: June, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. This is an impressive set of new releases from Henriot, an historic estate that seems to be experiencing a resurgence in quality. All of this house’s Champagnes see full malolactic fermentation, yet retain an element of cut and verve that gives the best wines impeccable balance. Importer: Henriot Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 605-6706
Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019
JancisRobinson.com 17.5
50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay. (No 2006 to taste as they are currently only on 2000.) Deep straw. Nicely fully evolved nose – more mature than most. Not flashy but very pleasing. Well balanced. Lots there with quite a bit of toast. Slightly dry on the end but at peak and giving lots of fully developed pleasure. Clean finish but not that persistent. Slight hint of apple skins. GV
Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022
