Philipponnat 'Reserve Millesimee 2000' Brut Champagne

Grape proportions: 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay

Tasted in Aug, 2009

Lemon gold with green hue. Creamy mousse.

Upon first pouring, a burst of 'green' gooseberry and white pepper on the nose, then gradually subsides towards discreet notes of honey, toast and roasted hazelnut.

The attack on the palate is frank and substantial. Intensely citrous flavored, with wild spicy edge(white pepper and cinnamon)  and fine core of smoky mineral and hazelnut. This medium-plus bodied fizz is full of flavor and character, and in no way difficult to understand. Compared to the slow starting then suprisingly unfolding 'Cuvee 1522' of the same vintage 2000

(tasting note: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_517ac8680100dvb6.html) , this straight vintage 2000 is outgoing upon uncorking and easily satisfying.

Regretfully, the acidity of this Reserve Millesimee 2000 bottle melts down after half an hour or so, leaving behind only candied fruit with less vigor and no more thrill for my palate. 

Best to drink now. Don't store!