TN: 1982 Champagne Deutz Blanc de Blancs

[Baby Chickpea]

1982 Champagne Deutz Blanc de Blancs
My last two bottles both served within a week. Expectations were modest, despite the near faultless brilliance of the top-of-the-line 79 Champagne Deutz Cuvée William Deutz I drank a year ago (97 / 100). Beautiful ‘pop’ from both. Gold colour. Clean nose with stunning richness of vanilla and warm-baked bread. Hints of pears and almonds strangely. The palate is excellent with the best length and concentration of flavour of the 82 Pol Roger and 83 Moët had a week apart (see separated TNs). What can I say, I love Blanc de Blancs (the Taittinger Comtes de Champagne is among my top 5 – when is the ‘96 released?), and this doesn’t disappoint – gorgeous creamy texture, fresh acidity providing the backbone, hints of honey and toffee apple and lush toasted marshmallows (I think!). Much better than I expected. Bubbles galore with glorious 0.5cm mousse that kept adrift despite open for 90 minutes. My two companions were startled at how a non-prestige marque champagne could not only last but also be this good. This will be their ruin. Beautifully balanced for a powerhouse style that betrays its Blanc de Blancs status.
94 / 100