1996 de Venoge Louis XV
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Tasting notes
It’s made by one of Champagne’s great winemakers, Eric Label, the man who has been in charge at Krug since 1998, from a selection of some of the region’s top vineyards. The pedigree is utterly impeccable. This is from an absolutely outstanding vintage, one of the all-time greats in modern Champagne history and at just over 20 years of age it should be drinking absolutely beautifully. Although not yet rated, the signs are that it will be exceptional. The 1995 vintage scored a massive 97 points in the Wine Advocate while another de Venoge cuvee from 1996 scored an excellent 96 points. It’s therefore tough to imagine that this will be anything less than spectacular.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A bright golden color, the medium-bodied 1996 Champagne Louis XV Brut is a brighter hue than the 1995, with more elegance and refined length, as well as a more focused feel. With a ripe texture and more white fruit, it feels as though it has a lot of life to give and will only improve with air. More of a dessert wine, the mousse is seductive, creamy, and delightful. Disgorged in 2022.
The 1996 Brut Miilésimé Louis XV, made from half Pinot Noir and half Chardonnay exclusively from Grand Cru vineyards, presents dried cep mushroom and mushroom duxelles with an overtone of parmesan rind, showing deeply earthy evolution on the nose, all wrapped in a cloud of caramel. These flavors fill the palate, where the famed 1996 acidity shines brightly, briefly pulling focus before allowing the flavors to melt into each other. The finish is deeply savory, with a strong and lasting umami notion that enfolds immense woodland savoriness of dried cep and shiitake. Drink soon. Dosage is 6 grams per liter. - Anne Krebiehl MW
This is really complex, old Champagne with puff-pastry, dried-apple, spice and salted-nut aromas and flavors. Full body. Ultra fine bubbles with an extremely fine and creamy mouth feel. Extreme edge to it. This spent 21 years on the lees. Disgorged in 2018. Every year they disgorge 3,000 bottles.