2003 Tarlant La Vigne d'Or Blanc de Meuniers

Tarlant's 2003 Brut Nature La Vigne d'Or emerges from 50 year-old Pinot Meunier vines in the Pierre de Bellevue lieu-dit in Oeuilly. Apricot pit, orange jam, brioche, spice, marzipan and a hint of vanilla flesh out in an effortless, creamy Champagne built on a compelling interplay of volume and freshness. Tarlant did a fabulous job with his 2003s, as the Vigne d'Or and the other wines of the vintage amply demonstrate. Disgorged February 20, 2014.

Honey, hazelnut and white truffle overtones meld into dried apricot and pears in the 2003 La Vigne d' Or, Benoit Tarlant's 100% Pinot Meunier. The 2003 is warm, rich and oxidative in style, but not at all heavy. This immediate, beautifully resonant Champagne is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The exotic finish alone is simply striking. Dosage is 2 grams per liter.