Anyone who has been paying attention to my notes over the last five years or so will know that I have a strong affinity for the Champagnes of Paul Dethune. Everything they produce is noteworthy and delicious; particularly their fabulous NV offerings. However, if you ever get a chance to try any of their vintage Champagnes, the splurge is worth it. This 2012 example is stunning.
Popped and poured to celebrate the homecoming of a friend. The 2012 pours a beautiful straw color with tiny bubbles that dazzle and a persistent mousse. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of ripe and tart forest berries and orchard fruit: raspberries, strawberries, apples, white peach, lemon bars, marzipan, some toasted brioche and minerals. On the palate, bone dry with high acid but it’s all fairly well balanced. The notes from the nose are confirmed and accompanied by chalky minerals…oh the minerals! The finish is long and devastatingly handsome. This is a seriously impressive Champagne in its relative youth but I expect a long life when considering the substantial fruit and acid. In the spirit of Bacchus, drink now and through 2042.
Anyone who has been paying attention to my notes over the last five years or so will know that I have a strong affinity for the Champagnes of Paul Dethune. Everything they produce is noteworthy and delicious; particularly their fabulous NV offerings. However, if you ever get a chance to try any of their vintage Champagnes, the splurge is worth it. This 2012 example is stunning.
Popped and poured to celebrate the homecoming of a friend. The 2012 pours a beautiful straw color with tiny bubbles that dazzle and a persistent mousse. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of ripe and tart forest berries and orchard fruit: raspberries, strawberries, apples, white peach, lemon bars, marzipan, some toasted brioche and minerals. On the palate, bone dry with high acid but it’s all fairly well balanced. The notes from the nose are confirmed and accompanied by chalky minerals…oh the minerals! The finish is long and devastatingly handsome. This is a seriously impressive Champagne in its relative youth but I expect a long life when considering the substantial fruit and acid. In the spirit of Bacchus, drink now and through 2042.
Jan 6th, 2025
Ambonnay, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
