2002 Pierre Gimonnet Cuvee Fleuron

The 2002 Brut Blanc de Blancs Fleuron is Chardonnay from Chouilly (35%), Cuis (34%) and Cramant (31%) which according to Gimonnet give the wine their fruit, freshness and minerality, respectively. An array of apricots, quince and sweet spices emerge from this gorgeous, beautifully balanced wine that represents an especially generous, open style for Gimonnet. The wine’s richness has been achieved without sacrificing freshness and the finish lingers on the palate for some time. Simply put, this is awesome juice. This bottle was disgorged in June, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2022. Didier Gimonnet is a small grower based in Cuis. Gimonnet’s vineyards are mostly planted to Chardonnay, although in 2002 he added to his holdings by acquiring Pinot Noir plots in Mareuil-sur-Ay. Gimonnet’s style expresses freshness above all else, and he aims to make wines meant to be enjoyed upon release. Gimonnet is among the growers who believe in the art of blending, even among his top-level wines, as opposed to the expression of single sites. A Terry Theise Selection, imported by: Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300

(disgorged June 6, 2008) Light yellow with a steady bead. Intensely floral bouquet evokes tangerine, honeysuckle, lightly toasty lees, smoke and chalk. Impressively precise, with expansive orange, apple and hazelnut flavors, a subtle note of floral honey and slow-mounting grip. Very elegant blanc de blancs with excellent finishing cut and grip. This should be put away for at least another fine years.

(disgorged January 12, 2007) Light yellow. Intensely floral nose features smoky orange and pear scents complicated by jasmine and rose. Fleshy, sharply focused pear and citrus fruit flavors are admirably brisk and cling tenaciously on the finish. Reminds me of a serious Puligny-Montrachet.