NV, Tarlant "Cuvée Louis", Champagne

Blend: 50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir

Vintages: 1998, 1997, 1996

Vineyard: "Les Crayons" in Oeuilly (Marne valley). Chalk. 60-yrs old vines.

Dosage : 3 g/l

Other : No malolactic fermantation

Glass: Spiegelau Adina “Red wine”

This is an updated TN

It’s been about 9 months since I have tasted this wine. Looking at my TN back from June-2010, it’s clear some evolvement has occurred.

The most dominant change is the presence of more autolysis character. It tends to raise the complexity, which is also the case here. The citrus notes have taken a step back, but the wonderful flowery character is still here, providing grace to a Champagne, which is already so approachable and drinkable.

Last time I wrote about soil spiciness, the note is still there, but the aging has caused the note to be a little more subdued as everything is now turning more amble and softer on the palate. But still you have a firm and vibrant acidity.

Last time, I said, such a Champagne can only make you smile and after this bottle, I am still smiling.