1 | Wine | Champagne, 2004

"Very elegant, this is all in the details, offering precise and silky texture, mouthwatering acidity and a smoky, mineral undertow that enriches flavors of patisserie pear, crystallized honey, kumquat and toasted almond. Offers a clean, citrus-tinged finish."

"Elegant, with lovely texture and focused, lively acidity. Flavors of currant, candied lemon zest, honey and white peach lead to the creamy, biscuit-tinged finish."

"The 2004 Brut Cristal has put on quite a bit of weight since I first tasted it earlier this year. It is a powerful, structured Cristal layered with considerable fruit. Chardonnay seems to play the leading role in 2004, at least today. Cristal is often accessible young, but that is far from the case here. This is a serious, painfully young Cristal that will require considerable patience. Readers who are willing to spend some time with the wine today will find a super-impressive, complete Cristal."

"Shows fine balance and texture, with a light chalkiness adding some structure to hints of white peach, apple tarte Tatin, ground ginger and lemon pound cake. Spice and floral notes linger on the clean-cut finish."

"Mineral-accented aromas of lemon, orange peel, jasmine and chamomile, with a touch of pear skin adding depth. Juicy citrus flavors show a silky quality, with spice and floral notes adding complexity. Gains flesh and sweetness with air and finishes with excellent clarity, cut and chalky persistence. This is balanced to age."

"Light, bright gold. Exotic aromas of poached pear, smoky minerals and iodine are complemented by a sexy floral nuance. On the palate, incisive, tangy flavors of candied citrus and orchard fruits, ginger and minerals gain flesh and weight with air. Finishes on a seductively sweet note, with outstanding juicy persistence and strong mineral cut and grip."