Tasting Notes
JancisRobinson.com 18.5
Tasted blind. Putty and lively, very much more concentrated nose than its pair (the 2002). Sweet with crème pâtissière on the palate. Dancing. Lemon posset. Flattering. More beguiling than its pair. Blind, this seemed more likely to have been the 2002.
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028
Vinous 96
I am thrilled with the way the 2004 Comtes de Champagne continues to evolve in bottle. A few years ago, the 2004 was quite focused and linear, in the style of the vintage, but more recently, the wine has begun to fill out beautifully. The 2004 remains bright, with a full range of citrus, white flower and mineral nuances that dance on the palate. A brisk, saline-infused finish rounds things out beautifully in a Comtes that impresses for its crystalline purity. I expect the 2004 will always remain a bit cool next to the more opulent 2002, but it is still drop-dead gorgeous. Drink now-2034.
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2034
Robert Parker 96
It’s fascinating to taste the 2004 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne after the 2002, something I have been able to do on a few occasions. The 2004 is all about minerality, precision and tension. It doesn’t have the sheer richness or power of the 2002, but it makes up for that with its crystalline purity and sheer energy. Bright hints of lemon oil, white flowers and crushed rocks are layered into the pointed, vibrant finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2034. This is a fabulous set of new releases from Taittinger. The 2002 Comtes de Champagne is easily one of the very best young Champagnes I have ever tasted. Over the next year or so, Taittinger plans to list more information about their NV wines on the back labels, something that is a huge positive for the consumer. Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756
Anticipated maturity: 2014-2034
