2002 Gaston Chiquet Blanc de Blancs d'Aÿ Grand Cru

The 2002 Brut Blanc de Blancs d'Ay is remarkable. A sweet, open bouquet laced with flowers, honey and dried roses melds into a core of seamless fruit. The 2002 possesses gorgeous inner perfume and terrific overall balance. Mirabelle plums, kirsch and jasmine are some of the notes that linger on the ethereal, impeccable finish. This is a stunning bottle. The Blanc de Blancs d'ay is bottled only in magnum or larger formats. Ay is far better known for Pinot Noir, but this Chardonnay is truly special, particularly with time in the big bottle, which seems to transform it magically. Dosage is 8 grams per liter.

(disgorged July 1, 2011): Light gold. Captivating, intensely perfumed nose combines orchard fruits, nectarine, minerals, white flowers and iodine. Intense and tactile on entry, then taut and penetrating in the middle, with impressive power to its citrus fruit, melon and floral flavors. A very powerful, palate-staining Champagne that is aging slowly.