This refined Champagne is driven by subtle spice notes--anise, cardamom and ginger--that accent flavors of apple pastry, biscuit, candied lemon peel, clove and spring blossom. Well-integrated and focused, with a stony finish. Drink now through 2020. 3,125 cases made. — AN

The 2005 Brut Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay Premier Cru Gastronome flows with a gorgeous core of fruit. This shows a touch more roundness and softness than some entry-level bottlings in a relatively plush style for Gimonnet. A brisk refreshing finish rounds things out in style. The Gastronome is a blend of fruit from Chouilly Cuis Cramant and Oger that undergoes a lower pressure secondary fermentation. This is L1810051273 disgorged May 12 2010 and bottled with with 8 grams of dosage Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.-Antonio Galloni