Widely renowned as one of the greatest Champagne vintages of recent years, 2002 more than stands up to past greats such as 1996 and 1990. Praised by critics across the board, it is a vintage of exceptional diversity, that is full of gems at every level. It is so good that it is almost a brand in its own right, and has become a byword for top quality.
With more than 10 years in bottle, many of these 2002 Champagnes are now entering their optimum drinking windows and there could not be a better time to snap up a few bottles for the cellar.
2002 supplied near-perfect growing conditions, capped by fine, dry weather at harvest. The Champagnes have proven to be hugely age-worthy across the board, with exceptional, opulent fruit held in check by keen acidity.
Considered an unusually concentrated year, the 2002 Champagnes combine power, richness and structure with impeccable balance. The vintage was hailed as a "wonderful year" by Antonio Galloni. Deeming it “a notch or two (at least) above the surrounding 2000, 2001 and 2003 vintages".
What are the critics’ picks in 2002?
Scores are impressive across the spectrum in 2002, with critics awarding near-perfect ratings to several luxury cuvées.
Galloni ranked the Taittinger Comtes de Champagne at the top of the heap, describing it simply as “one of the greatest Champagnes ever made”. He called the Dom Pérignon “towering” and dubbed the Bollinger V.V. Francaises “spectacular”.
In terms of rosé, the Roederer Cristal Rosé and Dom Pérignon Rosé both scored a near-perfect 98 points, with both predicted to have at least 20 more years of age in them.
Champagne critic Richard Juhlin likewise found much to praise, scoring both the Roederer Cristal Vinotheque and Cristal Rose an impressive 96-98 points, whilst the Bollinger V.V. Francaises and Taittinger Comtes de Champagne almost scored equally well.
Some potential blockbusters are yet to be released
Given the late release many of the 2002s were subject to – with some, including Krug, still yet to be released – availability remains fair across the board. With prices very likely at their lowest, there could not be a better time to stock the cellar with a vintage clearly destined for legendary status.
