Magnificent in its complexity and pure breeding, the 2002 Extra Brut Celebris has it all. The Extra Brut style confers the signature Gosset drive, while extended time on the lees has given the wine just enough texture and body to fill out nicely. In the meantime, the aromas and flavors have mellowed into those that are typical of Champagne entering the first plateau of its maturity. The 2002 is vinous, fleshy and super-expressive, yet retains striking freshness throughout. Candied lemon peel, apricot jam, honey, mint, spices and sage form a compelling fabric of flavors and textures in a knock-out Champagne that is peaking today. The 2002 is 52% Chardonnay, 48% Pinot Noir from vineyards in Aÿ, Bouzy, Verzy, Chouilly and Cramant. Nov 2015, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2015-2025
Antonio Galloni, VinousScore: 96/100Drink 2015-2025
Tasted blind. Some oak? Severe and dry on the end. Bollinger or Clos des Goisses? Lots of raciness and very dry (which should have led me to this, one of only two Extra Bruts in the tasting). Almost severe. Oct 2016, www.jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MWScore: 18.5/20
The 2002 Celebris Vintage Extra Brut displays a noble, clear, fresh and subtle bouquet with white fruit and brioche flavors intertwined with mineral aromas. Silky textured and highly elegant, this full-bodied yet delicate blend of 48% Pinot Noir and 52% Chardonnay is clear and straight on the palate, revealing a ripe and intense, yet refined fruit. It has a persistent and complex, firmly structured, stimulatingly pure and salty finish. Great finesse and ethereal lightness here, with great purity and mineral tension. It also has the intensity of perfect fruit in the long and persistent finish. A great Champagne for the next ten and probably many more years. Gosset's current range of Champagnes is amazing. Jun 2016, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2016-2026
Stephan Reinhardt, Wine AdvocateScore: 95/100Drink 2016-2026
A deep, rich and toasty nose that has a wealth of cashewy, nutty aromas and dried lemon pith, nougat and bright dried cherry fruits too. The palate's bold, assertive and full of flavor with really expansive orchard fruits. It's pared back to reveal a dry, essence-like finish with length and poise aplenty. Drink now. Jul 2015, www.jamessuckling.com
James SucklingScore: 94/100
Champagne / France
2015-2026