2005 J. Lassalle Brut Millésimé Cuvée Angeline 1er Cru
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Brut 1er Cru Cuvée Angeline is a soft, attractive Champagne, very much in the Lassalle style, but it is now also close to being fully mature, so any remaining bottles need to be finished up. The flavors retain good brightness, but some of the more mushroomy, oxidized notes typical of the year have begun to creep in. The 2005 has been much more impressive on the two other occasions I have tasted it, which suggests the wine is now past peak, although it should hold on for at least a few more years.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Brut Millésime Premier Cru Cuvée Angeline bursts from the glass with a rush of expressive varietal fruit, dried flowers, mint and light honey. It possesses gorgeous depth along with a crystalline, pure expression of fruit, all of which add up to a compelling glass. Layers of fragrant, sweet fruit linger on the inviting finish. This is a knock out from Lassale.
Light gold. Aromas of dried pear, redcurrant, musky herbs and anise, with a brighter, spicier quality that emerges with air. Deeply pitched but slightly rigid, offering bitter pear skin and orange pith flavors and slow-building smokiness. Finishes smooth and broad, with gripping orange zest and spice notes and very good persistence. This Champagne improves a lot with air.
The 2005 Brut Millesime Premier Cru Cuvee Angeline bursts from the glass with a rush of expressive varietal fruit, dried flowers, mint and light honey. It possesses gorgeous depth along with a crystalline, pure expression of fruit, all of which add up to a compelling glass. Layers of fragrant, sweet fruit linger on the inviting finish. This is a knock out from Lassale. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. Lassalle has just a handful of new releases in the market this year. Importer: Kermit Lynch, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524