2002 Thienot "Cuv̩e Alain Thi̩not" Brut Champagne

Precious few 2002's are available these days- grab one of these when you can! This classy vintage Champagne is composed of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir. Like all of the Thi̩not vintage wines, this bottling is entirely estate grown from the family's nearly seventy acres of vines. The Alain Thi̩not has so much aroma that I thought it would be a giant Champagne from smelling the walnut bread and dark cherry fruit that was jumping from the glass. On the palate this is a very balanced wine with great clarity of flavor and a light bead. The long aging of this Champagne has done so much for it--to think that the most famous names in Champagne are selling wine that is 4 or even 6 years younger shows Thi̩not's commitment to quality in the bottle. It is extremely focused and long on the finish and a must-try for anyone who loves luxury cuv̩es. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)