2002 Bruno Paillard Brut Millésimé Assemblage

The 2002 Brut Assemblage is initially quite awkward, but then blossoms beautifully with air. It is rare to find a Champagne like this one, where the aromas and flavors are so beautifully defined, yet also so marvelously integrated. Sweet red berries, citrus, flowers and spices are given a little extra volume and breadth by oak in this gorgeous, broad-shouldered Champagne. Each time I come back to the wine, there is a new shade of nuance to discover. The finish is trademark Bruno Paillard, which is to say pure class. The 2002 is 47% Pinot Noir, 42% Chardonnay and 11% Pinot Meunier. Disgorgement date: July 2011.

The 2002 Brut Assemblage is initially quite awkward, but then blossoms beautifully with air. It is rare to find a Champagne like this one, where the aromas and flavors are so beautifully defined, yet also so marvelously integrated. Sweet red berries, citrus, flowers and spices are given a little extra volume and breadth by oak in this gorgeous, broad-shouldered Champagne. Each time I come back to the wine, there is a new shade of nuance to discover. The finish is trademark Bruno Paillard, which is to say pure class. The 2002 is 47% Pinot Noir, 42% Chardonnay and 11% Pinot Meunier. Disgorgement date: July 2011. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Bruno Paillard’s Champagnes stand out for their elegance and total finesse. Although a relatively new house by Champagne’s standards, Paillard’s wines have a timeless classicism about them that is highly appealing. Importer: Vintus LLC, Pleasantville, NJ tel. (914) 769-3000