The 2005 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Mineral is breathtaking. The wine emerges from parcels in Avize (Les Champboutons) and Cramant (Les Bionnes) and is fermented in 600-liter barrels. The 2005 Mineral bursts from the glass with racy Chardonnay fruit that covers every inch of the palate. The aromas and flavors remain clean crisp and beautifully articulated from start to finish. This is a broad-shouldered wine that nevertheless keeps its focus. The balance of ripeness from the year and the inherent minerality of these limestone-rich old-vine parcels is terrific. This is a stunning wine in every way. Dosage was 4 grams per liter. Disgorged July 2011. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. -Antonio Galloni