All photos by courtesy of "远峰一青" 

Take note of "Appellation d'Origine Controlee", which is now rarely marked on Champagne labels

Cuvee Dom Perignon Vintage 1983 Brut Champagne by Moet et Chandon

Tasted in July 2009

My heart-felt thanks to Johnny for sharing such understated serious champagne!

A bottle of original release (not “Oenotheque”) packed in gift box, this one gracefully evolved for almost 2 hours, showing textbook balance. Delicate yet precise – drinking such  understated mature wine is really like consulting a true gentleman of wisdom: words are just quietly spoken, while the thought-provoking contents easily knock off all doubters.

Lemon gold. Just few minute bubbles quickly dissipated.

The nose is subtle and restrained, yet gradually evolving: honey, nuts, coffee, toffee, mineral, earth, sea smell, a flash of gasoline! just merest hint of mushroom, and then lovely chocolate cream! You just need to be patient…

Medium body. The palate is mature yet fresh, delicate yet precise: just an initial burst of toasty flavor, then note of coffee takes over, gradually evolving towards honey, nuts and sea salt, finishing with fine bitterness of dark chocolate. Nothing in a hurry, the evolution takes place in a leisurely pace -- just like the lyrics "A gentleman will walk but never run." This original release bottle from 83 vintage amazed us with great finesse and healthy condition – it holds up terrifically well for around one hour and a half after uncorking. Then the palate thins up with only sour-sweet flavor of haw, and some licorice on the finish…

Truly classic champagne of balance, poised in restrained elegance.