2005 La Lutétienne

The 2005 Brut Nature Prestige Millesime La Lutétienne is a very good wine in what has proven to be an inconsistent vintage. Hints of pear, spice, dried flowers, chamomile and lemon oil all meld together nicely. There’s terrific creaminess and texture, achieved by long aging in the cellar on the lees. There is perhaps a bit of evolution, but then again, the 2005 is nearly 20 years old. Even so, I would not push my luck too much on aging. The blend is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir. Disgorged: November 24, 2021.

So ripe, rich and toasty that you only realize it’s bone-dry when it has rolled a long way over the palate. Very long, savory and mineral finish with so much drive. Still so energetic, in spite of the complex, mature character, so I can imagine this aging for many more years. A blend of 80% chardonnay and 20% pinot noir that was wild-fermented in wooden casks with no malolactic. Disgorged February 1st, 2021. Drink or hold.

The 2005 Brut Nature La Lutétienne is a gorgeous wine, especially for the year. Dried pear, spice, dried flower and hazelnut nuances suggest the 2005 is in its first plateau of maturity. I wouldn't push my luck on aging, but the 2005 is undeniably beautiful today. The 2005 is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir. Disgorged: February 14, 2020.