Like the straight vintage Henriot (always among the best, and best value, '96s) the prestige Enchanteleurs is very much in that mouthwateringly mineral style. There is even better purity and precision here thanks to use of the best Grand Cru grapes. Though the blend is 50/50 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the great white grape shines, especially the late Joseph Henriot's favourite parcel of Chouilly Les Partelaines. Secondary notes of butter, hazelnut and peach confit lurk within the mineral frame. Tops!

Already seductively creamy and deep, with delightful notes from Aÿ that with time will become more gamy and sexy. Long, creamy, uniform taste. The wine benefits from airing and the last glass is—at the moment—much better than the first. During the autumn of 2003, the fruit of this high-class Pinot Noir began to make itself known, like a rumbling thunderstorm in the distance.

– champagneclub.com, tested Feb 2016

The 1996 Brut Cuvee des Enchanteleurs is one of the softer, more forward 1996s readers are likely to come across. Smoke, cantaloupe, pear, flowers, mint, sweet baking spices and apricots are some of the notes that emerge from this layered, sublime Champagne. The finish is long and polished. The 1996 Enchanteleurs is drinking beautifully today, but also appears to have the stuffing to age gracefully for at least another decade. Disgorged: June, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. This is an impressive set of new releases from Henriot, an historic estate that seems to be experiencing a resurgence in quality. All of this house’s Champagnes see full malolactic fermentation, yet retain an element of cut and verve that gives the best wines impeccable balance. Importer: Henriot Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 605-6706

50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay. (No 2006 to taste as they are currently only on 2000.) Deep straw. Nicely fully evolved nose – more mature than most. Not flashy but very pleasing. Well balanced. Lots there with quite a bit of toast. Slightly dry on the end but at peak and giving lots of fully developed pleasure. Clean finish but not that persistent. Slight hint of apple skins. GV (JR)