Rich deep aromas of creamed minerals and toast are intertwined with ripe apples in the complex nose of the 1996 Cuvee William Deutz. This classically structured Champagne regales the palate with toasty apples. Rich concentrated and exceptionally long it is fully mature and will particularly appeal to those who crave the complexity of wines with bottle age.

I was extremely impressed by this wine’s aromatic complexity and while it’s a good deal more mature than most ’96 luxury cuvées in magnum, that does not diminish the appeal of the intensely yeasty nose where further breadth is present in the form of citrus peel, floral notes and soft green apple hints. The citrus elements telegraphed by the nose continue onto the delicious medium weight flavors that are shaped by a notably firm mousse that is borderline foamy yet not so much that materially alters the seductive texture of the toasty and beautifully complex finale. While this could certainly be held for many years to come in magnum format, this is basically ready to my taste. now+

Here's a well-balanced creamy '96 with plenty of the year's bold acidity but also ripe generous berry floral and citrus flavors. Very finely textured and classy right through the lingering finish. Drink now through 2012. 6670 cases made.