2002 Tarlant La Vigne d'Antan

From ungrafted Chardonnay vines on sandy soils, the 2002 La Vigne d'Antan Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs offers a rich and clear Chardonnay bouquet with ripe melon fruit and some lemon aromas but also, great purity that comes through even more prominent on the palate. Round and pure, with great finesse and minerality, this is a tension-filled Champagne with great expression and persistent length.

The 2002 La Vigne d'Antan is utterly breathtaking from the very first taste. A vivid, crystalline wine, the 2002 emerges with the essence of crushed rocks, salt and bright, citrus-infused fruit. Hints of white pepper and flowers add elements of exoticism in a striking, pure Champagne loaded with class. Readers who can find the 2002 should not hesitate as it is magnificent.

The 2002 Brut Nature Vigne d'Antan is powerful and exotic, with notable aromatic and flavor intensity to match its deep, resonant personality. Mint, spice, hard candy and white flowers shape the finish in the Vigne d'Antan. This is a rare, 100% Chardonnay planted on beach sand. Even so, the Vigne d'Antan offers notable richness and resonance. In my view, though, the first release with 2 grams of sugar, was the best. Disgorged: November 2015 with no dosage. Aug 2016, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2016-2024