Champagne MCIII NV 75cl

This edition is labelled 001.14, meaning it's from the first batch and disgorged in 2014. In essence, it's a non-vintage blend of vintages aged in three different modes. The first component comes from a ripe and structured vintage – in this case 2003 – that's aged in stainless steel for fruitiness and represents the basis of the blend. This then supports wines aged in oak casks (2002 for the richness, 2000 for the freshness and 1998 for the elegance). Each of these vintages goes into oak for approx. 6 months and is then held in stainless steel as a reserve wine. There's then a third part of the blend, comprising vintage Champagnes from bottle in the cellar (1999, 1998 and 1993) that was simply disgorged for this blend. The result is very complex, especially as the inclusion of some oak is something that really doesn't make an appearance anywhere else in the Moët range. There are some very impressive dried flowers and youthful notes on the initial opening that build to lemons and dried peaches. Some preserved lemon close things out along with the merest hint of toasty grilled hazelnuts on the finish. More like a table wine than a Champagne – reminiscent of Corton-Charlemagne.

A rich, layered Champagne, offering a range of toasted brioche, passion fruit, espresso, spice and candied kumquat flavors on a detailed and creamy mousse, while vibrant acidity provides a fine, lithe frame. The long finish echoes hints of smoke and pastry cream.