2002 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Rose

The 2002 Brut Rose Grand Vintage is a richer, bolder wine than the Grand Vintage, just as it was in 2000. It possesses fabulous depth and richness, with layers of expressive fruit and terrific overall balance. Dried flowers, spices, licorice and herbs wrap around the finish. The 2002 doesn’t quite have the freshness of most wines of this vintage, so it is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. This is Lot # LAGM5 AD AY. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Importer: Moet Hennessy USA, New York, NY; tel. (212) 251-8200

The 2002 Brut Rosé Grand Vintage is a rich, weighty wine endowed with considerable richness. The Pinot component is quite prominent in the flavor and textural profile. Far from an easygoing, aperitif Rose, the 2002 Brut Rosé Grand Vintage might very well redefine what consumers expect from a big-brand wine. Clean, chalky notes frame the exquisite, vinous finish. This is a fabulous effort from Moët & Chandon. The 2002 Brut Rosé Grand Vintage is 51% Pinot Noir (of which 27% is still red wine), 28% Chardonnay and 21% Pinot Meunier. Lot LAFXQAA.

(41% pinot noir, 39% chardonnay and 20% pinot meunier; LAFXQAA) Bright salmon-skin color. Fresh red berries and spice cake on the nose, with complicating notes of potpourri and smoky lees. Pungent, palate-staining red fruit and bitter orange flavors pick up a hint of nuttiness with air while retaining good clarity. The smoky note repeats on the long, sappy finish. This drinks well now but has the structure to reward a few more years of patience. These are the most impressive vintage bottlings I've had from Moet in years.