2008 Pierre Gimonnet Extra Brut Oenophile Non Dose
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Tasting notes
The first of the three vintages of this cuvée that I tasted, the 2008 Champagne Cuvée Oenophile Extra Brut is expressive of more confected pastry, with lemon curd, sponge cake, and white floral perfume. It is zippy and linear on the palate, with tautness all the way through, and fresh lime, green apple candy, and fantastic density throughout. Refreshing and saline, this is a fantastic wine to drink over the next 15-20 years.
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James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
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A very rich Blanc de Blancs champagne that doesnât taste bone-dry, thanks to the stunning harmony. Tons of dried pear and apple character is married to a wonderfully creamy and silky palate, the chalky minerality building beautifully at the long, refined finish. A cuvée based on wines from the Grand Cru villages of Chouilly (one third), Cramant (one third) and Oger (10%), plus the 1er Cru villages of Cuis (20%) and Vertus (2%). Disgorged in February, 2021. Drink now.
The 2008 Extra-Brut Non-Dosé Oenophile is rich, creamy and beautifully textured, yet maintains the brightness and focus that are such signatures of the house style. A Champagne of real depth and power, the 2008 is a wine for the dinner table. The non-dosage style seems to really bring out resonance and intensity. Fruit sources are Cramant, Choully, Oger (all Grand Crus), plus Cuis and Vertus (both 1er Crus). Disgorged: September 2015.
The 2008 Extra-Brut Non-Dosé Oenophile is bristling with energy and tension, but it also lacks a bit of mid-palate pliancy, which leads me to wonder if the zero dosage style is truly optimal in this vintage. Lemon oil, white flowers, sage and chalk are all pushed forward. The 2008 is bracing and classically austere, with notable intensity throughout. Vineyard sources are 33.5 % Cramant, 32.5% Chouilly, 22% Cuis, 10% Oger and 2% Vertus. Disgorged: June 2015.