José Dhondt Mes Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru Brut (2007) 750 ML

Importer Notes: It was wasn’t until 1974 that José Dhondt, a longtime grower, produced his first cuvée. José makes three wines, a NV Rosé, a NV Blanc de Blancs and another he calls “Mes Vieille Vignes,” which, while always made from grapes of a single year, is only vintage dated when José decides it’s been an especially good year in the vineyard. Whether the “Mes Vieille Vignes” cuvée is vintage dated or not, it is astoundingly good Champagne, with a richness and persistence that is truly unparalleled. Tasting Notes: Light gold. Intense, mineral-driven aromas of nectarine, honeydew, chalk and white flowers, with a spicy topnote. Sappy pit fruit flavors are enlivened by notes of ginger and orange zest, turning increasingly tangy with air. Finishes linear and firm, with lingering spiciness and excellent clarity. This is still a baby but holds real promise.