Philipponnat Champagne Le Clos des Goisses 2008 1.5Ltr

The 2008 Clos des Goisses is just as impressive today as it has always been. Rich, dense and explosive, the 2008 exists in three dimensions, with remarkable textural depth and vertical intensity to burn. Clos des Goisses is notoriously slow to develop. Readers who can be patient will be treated to a spectacular Champagne. The blend is 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir, which makes the 2008 a rare Clos des Goisses that favors Chardonnay. About 75% of the lots were fermented in oak. Disgorged April 2017. Dosage is 4.25 grams per liter.

Comprising 45% Pinot Noir and 55% Chardonnay and disgorged in March 2018 with a dosage of 4.5 grams per liter, Philipponnat’s 2008 Clos des Goisses marks the last vintage in which this cuvée was Chardonnay-dominant. With approximately 75% of the wine vinified in oak, it opens in the glass with an aromatic profile of crisp pear, brioche and baking spices, interwoven with hints of spring flowers and stone fruit. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied and tightly wound, with a mid-palate defined by electric acidity and a taut, tensile core, concluding with a long lemon-inflected finish. With its chiseled and incisive character, it presents a striking stylistic counterpoint to the more voluptuous 2009. Despite its pronounced, bracing acidity, the fruit has held up very well, maintaining harmony. This remains a profoundly youthful Champagne; those seeking immediate charm and generosity would be better served by opening the 2009 instead.

Shimmering pale gold with green flecks. The slight majority of Chardonnay is a fine decision, as unlike a lot of '08s, the wine is already a pleasure to drink - but it will continue to live a long and distinguished life. Terrific expression of a complex range of citrus scents, confit of lemon and a touch of bergamot. The palate is stunning, with a promise of burgeoning flavours into the 2030s. The fruit is ideally, subtly ripe in classic cooler conditions, but also mineral-stamped in the Clos' tradition. The 2008 has everything - a true great. Drinking Window 2019 - 2035.

Refined and seamless, showing effortless integration of the expressive, chalk-tinged minerality, the frame of sleek acidity, and the flavors of poached apple, pastry dough, orchard blossom, ground ginger and graphite carried on a delicate mousse. Impressive for the finesse and grace it projects today, but the restrained power here suggests a long future in the cellar. Disgorged April 2017. Drink now through 2035. 2,300 cases made, 750 cases imported.