Cuvee Louis Brut Champagne by Tarlant, 750ml bottle

Single vineyard ‘Les Crayons’ (the chalk) in Oeuilly (Vallée de la Marne)

50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay from vines over 45 years old

Blend of 96 and 97 harvests

1^st fermentation in NEW oak barrels! without malolactic fermentation

Tasted on Jan 28, 2009

Served in Riedel Chablis glass @ 10 DEG.C upon popping the cork @ 6 p.m.

Medium straw yellow with very fine and foamy mousse.

Warm welcoming nose of honey, brioche and slightly smoky notes.

On the palate, the silky texture exploded into massive weight of concentrated dried fruits, with raisin sweetness dominating the play. Full bodied yet plenty of vivacity. The finish was extraordinarily long and you felt your stomach was really warmed up against the cold winter. Really feeling like a stunning blanc de noirs. The wine was generous from the very beginning when served in Chablis glass, while in regular champagne flute, the nose was rather mute. This is a champagne that definitely drinks better when warmed up (10 – 14 DEG.C)

6:30 p.m. 2^nd pouring.

The nose became more discreet with just notes of butter.

The palate became fresher and lighter. Now Chardonnay wines began to take control.

7:00 p.m.

Lemony nose with rather acidic palate – just like a young blanc de blancs

7:25 p.m.

The acidity melt down a bit

7:40 p.m.

Some haw sour-sweetness typical of Pinot Noir.