There is ample petrol character to the cool, pure and beautifully fresh nose that combines notes of citrus and yeast with those of green apple and a whiff of pain grillé. I really like the sense of tension and energy to the intense, delineated and solidly complex flavors that are supported by a firm and reasonably fine effervescence before culminating in a very dry, highly complex and superbly persistent finish. The outstanding 2008 vintage in Champagne can count another winner as this is a wine to buy and age in quantity. Note that while this could certainly be enjoyed now, I would continue to hold it for another 2 to 5 years.
Henriot's 2008 Brut Millésimé spent eight years sur lattes before disgorgement with six grams per liter dosage and is a blend of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The wine displays a gently reductive nose with notes of citrus and stone fruit mingling with suggestions of freshly baked bread, oyster shell and smoke. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, with a voluminous but notably fine mousse, bright acids and an elegantly chalky finish that's delicate but penetrating. This is a comparatively supple, open-knit example of the taut 2008 vintage, but I suspect it will gain appreciably with bottle age.
This is a 50%/50% blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Grand and Premier Cru vineyards exclusively. Pale straw in colour with a lively mousse. The nose is biscuity and complex, with dried fruit and fresh brioche creating an enticing aroma. The palate is bright and fine, with vibrant acidity cutting through the smoky, nutty character and adding a zesty freshness. This backbone gives a mineral and taut perception throughout, adding finesse and elegance. Precise and long on the finish, this fine and harmonious vintage of Henriot is drinking well now, and will continue to age well for 10+ years.
