Gimonnet 1999 Collection Vieilles Vignes MAGNUM

Although small, Gimonnet is described as “one of the 10 greatest wine producers of Champagne” by Tom Stevenson, easily the World’s number 1 expert on Champagne.

The Collection VV Blanc des Blancs cuvées are truly exceptional. They are only ever produced in selected great vintage years - and only ever in Magnum. This wine is dominated by the character of the greatest Chardonnay Grand Cru – Cramant, which Didier believes to be their finest vineyard holding. Up to 70% of this Champagne is always made from Grand Cru fruit – from Cramant and their other holding in Chouilly. Above all, as the name suggests, the grapes selected are from the oldest plots in these vineyards – with a number of the parcels being over 80 years old. With meticulous selection and production procedures this cuvée is simply astonishing in the breadth and depth of flavours, yet at the same time hauntingly refined and delicate. On a personal note I found this one of the most exciting Champagnes I have tasted in recent years and everything you could ask for in a terroir-driven Blanc des Blancs style. Drink 2008 – 2015.