Top Rated 1999 Champagne

94 points. Dark pink. Rich and complex on the nose, showing an array of red berries, cherry pit, fruitcake and pungent rose scents. Fresh, strikingly pure and spicy, with vibrant cherry and raspberry flavors deepened by n... more

94 points. Dark pink. Rich and complex on the nose, showing an array of red berries, cherry pit, fruitcake and pungent rose scents. Fresh, strikingly pure and spicy, with vibrant cherry and raspberry flavors deepened by notes of floral honey and nutmeg. This has real size and a rich, chewy texture but it's also impressively balanced, with equal parts finesse and power. Finishes with an exotic spicy note and superb length. (Maisons Marques & Domaines, Oakland, CA)

93 points. Light gold. Strikingly complex, expansive bouquet of dried peach, pear, tangerine, marzipan, white truffle, smoked meat and minerals. This smells like a great Chassagne. Deep and round, with powerful, smoky fla... more

93 points. Light gold. Strikingly complex, expansive bouquet of dried peach, pear, tangerine, marzipan, white truffle, smoked meat and minerals. This smells like a great Chassagne. Deep and round, with powerful, smoky flavors of orchard and pit fruits sharpened and lifted by harmonious acidity. Expands exponentially on the finish, showing a deep, buttery, smoky character that's utterly enthralling. There's as much depth, power and complexity here as in many grand cru white Burgundies for which you could easily pay twice as much.

93(+?) points. Green-tinted gold. Tightly wound lime and pink grapefruit aromas open slowly to reveal a gently smoky mineral and floral character, with a light kiss of green cardamom adding interest. Very fresh on the pal... more

93(+?) points. Green-tinted gold. Tightly wound lime and pink grapefruit aromas open slowly to reveal a gently smoky mineral and floral character, with a light kiss of green cardamom adding interest. Very fresh on the palate, with youthful citrus and green apple flavors giving way to slightly riper blood orange and pear. Finishes firm and dry, with serious grip. This only hints at its potential, and I'd advise anyone drinking it for what's in the bottle rather than on the label to stash it away for at least another five years, minimum.