Philipponnat 1522 Grand Cru Extra Brut Champagne 2016

Philipponnat’s tête de cuvée, the 2016 Champagne Grand Cru 1522 Extra Brut is 70% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, with the Pinot Noir coming from Aÿ and Verzy and the Chardonnay from Mesnil-sur-Oger. It pours a copper straw hue and is highly aromatic, with rounded layers of spice along with notes of graham cracker, apricot, almond, and orange sherbet. Full-bodied without feeling too broad, it has a chalky, rich texture with a noble feel and a savory, mineral-tinged backbone. Long and mouthwatering on the palate, with a food-friendly, rounded feel, it has the intensity and power of the three sites where it originated and is a beautiful blend. Drink 2024-2044. Disgorged in October 2022, with 4.5 grams per liter dosage. Score – 95. (Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, Nov. 17, 2023)