Die Noten von Zitronensorbet sind zunächst subtil, füllen aber bald die Nase. Am Gaumen zeigt er sich geradlinig, straff und lebendig, mit Mirabellen- und Amalfi-Zitronennoten, die die Frische des 96er in die Frucht einbetten. Ein Elixier der Jugend.

This has a wonderful, slightly oxidative nose with hints of toffee. The palate displays very fine definition with a touch of smoke developing with aeration. Good acidity on the palate, very smooth and focused. Beautiful, classy champagne. Tasted March 2005.

Captivating yeast autolysis aromas of baked bread, cashew, Brazil nut and baking spices. Concentrated, dry, rich and toasty, with a sweet nutty flavor contributing to the wine's seductive creaminess. Impressively rich, ripe, harmonious Champagne with a solid backbone of acidity. Finishes long, broad and nutty. This reminded me of this producer's superb 1990 bottling. (Martine's Wines, Novato CA

The 1996 Brut is a more forceful, linear wine than the 1998. Smoke, minerals, licorice, mint and dried apricots are some of the nuances that emerge from this powerful, long wine. As excellent as this wine is, there are elements of rusticity, particularly in the tannins and mousse. Henriot’s Brut is roughly equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This is Lot: 5165C, disgorged February 14th, 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Henriot is a medium-sized, family-run estate located in Reims. Based on the wines I tasted it looks like quality is on the rise. Importer: Henriot Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 605-6706