2005 Philipponnat Grand Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Brut Grand Blanc is a very pretty wine. Lemon peel, white flowers, crushed rocks and mint all come alive in this chiseled, vibrant Champagne. The 2005 possesses gorgeous balance and plenty of early appeal. Given how the 2005s as a whole are evolving, I would not risk much on cellaring the Grand Blanc, but its appeal today is undeniable. Vibrant citrus and saline notes support the energetic finish. The Grand Blanc is aged 50% in oak, but the malos are blocked.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(100% grand cru chardonnay; disgorged October, 2010): Bright yellow. Musky aromas of orchard fruits, fig, chamomile and anise, with chalky mineral and floral nuances adding complexity. Fleshy and open-knit, offering powerful pear and orange flavors and a jolt of tangy acidity that adds back-end lift. The fig and anise elements come back on the long, juicy finish, which shows very good energy and cling. This is quite successful for an uneven vintage. I also tasted the 2004 Grand Blanc this fall and it is showing a suave blend of power and energy, with strong mineral cut and excellent clarity. I suspect that it will continue to improve for at least the next decade.
The 2005 Brut Grand Blanc fleshes out nicely on the mid-palate with expressive notes of lemon, white flowers and crushed rocks. There is lovely richness and roundness in the glass, in keeping with the style of the year. The Grand Blanc is 100% Chardonnay exclusively from Premier and Grand Cru villages.
About the producer
Champagne Philipponnat, an historic family estate that has been cultivating the region for an extraordinary 500 years, has been producing Champagne on the Clos des Goisses site since 1935. Charles Philipponnat is currently at the helm of the Champagne House.
Product details
12.5%
Blanc de Blancs