1999 Cuvee William Deutz

65% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Meunier.  Disgorged 2011, TA 4.6 g/l (expressed as sulphuric), pH 3. Seems paler than the 2000. Plenty of spice and a touch of honey – still a note of fresh ginger. Even oranges and apricots. Delicious baked apricots and brioche on the palate. I find better balance here between the richness and freshness – there is still a depth of flavour but it is more elegant and less broad than the 2000, and seems drier than the 2002, and more savoury on the finish. (JH)

The 1999 Brut Millesime Cuvée William Deutz has settled into a comfortable middle age. Hazelnuts, dried pears, spices and flowers are woven together in a delicate wine laced with attractive textural finesse and softness. All the elements are now nicely balanced. The 1999 was quite overt and tropical for a number of years, but today it impresses for its gorgeous balance and harmony. I can't see further bottle age leading to significant improvement, but the 1999 should drink nicely for at least a few more years.

(made from two-thirds pinot noir and one-third chardonnay): Bright gold. Intense, highly aromatic bouquet of dried pear, honey, gingerbread and smoky minerals, with notes of brioche and candied fig gaining strength in the glass. Fleshy, palate-staining orchard and citrus fruit flavors show outstanding clarity and power, with chalk and spice nuances adding lift and bite. The floral and brioche qualities linger on the long, sappy and penetrating finish. Showing very well right now but I've no doubt that this Champagne will continue to age gracefully.