Delamotte : Blanc de Blancs 1999

The 1999 Brut Blanc de Blancs is a beautifully nuanced wine. Here the Chardonnay speaks with notable eloquence, often drawing parallels with the wines of Burgundy. The mousse is exceptionally finessed and the wine offers great depth as well as richness. The essence of crushed rocks, smoke and minerals are layered beautifully in the polished finish. Delamotte is best known as the sister estate of its famous neighbor Salon, one of the most storied names in Champagne. Increasingly, though, the Delamotte wines are noteworthy for their own merits. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

This creamy Champagne is light-bodied and subtle, blending pastry, baked apple and smoke flavors with just a touch of butterscotch candy in a well-meshed package. Smoke and graphite notes linger on the juicy finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made, 667 cases imported.

From a producer that is closely linked to Salon Champagne, it's no coincidence that this Blanc de Blancs is the best of the Delamotte range. It is crisp, lemony, with a touch of toast and a mature finish.

Zero dosage (though you'd never guess, and it isn't stated on the label). Disgorged in two batches, January and June 2019. Part of the Delamotte Collection of vintage blanc de blancs, there was a very limited number of bottles put aside from the warm 1999 vintage. This rare release is a mass of contradictions, a perfect expression of old Chardonnay but with freshness still; powerful and with incredible depth, but also marked by a lightness of touch. Rich brioche and pastry character, with nuttiness, apricot and peach fruit, and some orange citrus. Pair this very special Champagne with something bold: fresh pasta with truffle shavings, perhaps, lobster or smoked salmon.

A rich and wonderful Champagne with apple pie and lemon rind character. Full and fruity with layers of fruit and a long, long finish. From the owners of Salon.

Pleasant! Sweet and well balanced though without great depth or savour. (JR)

The 1999 Brut Blanc de Blancs is a beautifully nuanced wine. Here the Chardonnay speaks with notable eloquence, often drawing parallels with the wines of Burgundy. The mousse is exceptionally finessed and the wine offers great depth as well as richness. The essence of crushed rocks, smoke and minerals are layered beautifully in the polished finish. This Lot # 6905306, disgorgement date unknown.

Lots of freshness and elegance, superb lemon-zest notes interwoven with subtle toasted nuances, with a refined, racy finish.