1999 Champagne

Dom Pérignon was the 17th century Benedictine monk who has gone down in history as the person who “invented” Champagne, and the name Moët & Chandon uses for its prestige cuvée, which was first released in 1937. A rigorous selection process in both the vineyard and winery ensures that only the best grapes go into Dom Pérignon.

From the ripe and approachable 1999 vintage, this has typically encyclopaedic notes of angelica, hazelnut, cinnamon and tobacco; how it manages to do all this is a well-guarded mystery, courtesy of the Chef de Cave, Richard Geoffroy. Exotic elements are harnessed by hints of peppery spice with notes of brioche, peach and quince all vying for attention. A powerful wine and one that will continue to develop over the next decade but which can also be enjoyed now.

(Simon Staples, Berrys' Fine Wine Director)

Les Comtes is, of course, one of the great all-Chardonnay Champagnes sourced from the finest Grand cru sites of the Côtes de Blancs. 1999 is a relatively forward vintage, captured in rich creamy flavors, a generous biscuity, autolytic character and a firm and discretely indulgent finish. Poise and power here, powerfully poised..
Simon Field MW, Fine Wine Buyer, January 2011