2004 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage

No brainer of a vintage. Medium everything. Easy to make and drink. Mid gold. Firm, somehow ‘burnished gold’ nose. Not too sweet, very direct and ready. Long and neat. An excellent drink for now. (JR)

Pear, spices, yellow stone fruits and smoke meld together in the Brut Grand Vintage. Rich and ample on the palate, the 2004 impresses for its balance, richness and volume. This bottle is quite a bit fresher and more vibrant than the bottle I reviewed last year. Early signs of development are just now starting to appear, but the flavors remain on the bright side for a ten year-old Champagne. If anything, the 2004 needs a bit more time to fully come together. Overall. this is a terrific showing. The blend is 38% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Noir and 29% Pinot Meunier. Disgorged 2012.

(38% chardonnay, 33% pinot noir and 29% pinot meunier; aged on its lees for seven years, with a relatively low 5 g/l dosage; LAHFU): Bright yellow. Heady, complex bouquet of fresh nectarine, pear and melon, with notes of smoky lees and white flowers adding complexity. Bright, mineral-driven orchard and pit fruit flavors show impressive depth and focus, picking up notes of iodine, lemon pith and anise with air. Finishes on a chalky note, with excellent focus and lingering sweet butter, citrus fruit and smoke nuances. It's a great pleasure to see this iconic house return to strong form.