The Wine Animal Verdict: A vintage beast that has gracefully matured! The 2009 Le Brun de Neuville is a Champagne that speaks of a specific time and place, a creature of character and depth developed over years in the cellar. It's not a fresh-faced cub, but a seasoned stag, displaying complexity and a lingering presence.
What's in the Cage:The 2009 vintage in Champagne is generally regarded as warm, yielding ripe and generous fruit.Le Brun de Neuville's 2009 Millésimé (vintage) is typically a blend dominated by Chardonnay (around 93%) from the Côte de Sézanne, with a touch of Pinot Noir (around 7%).It has spent a significant amount of time on its lees (spent yeast cells) – often a decade or more – contributing to its developed flavors and fine mousse. This extended aging is a hallmark of quality vintage Champagne.
Tasting Notes (based on the vintage and house style):
On the prowl, the nose reveals a developed and inviting bouquet:
Mature Fruit: Expect notes of baked apple, stewed pear, and perhaps hints of dried apricot or fig, reflecting the ripeness of the vintage.
Complex Autolysis: Pronounced aromas of toasted brioche, hazelnut, almond, and even a touch of honey or caramel will be evident from the long lees aging.
Mineral Depth: A characteristic chalky minerality from the Côte de Sézanne terroir will provide structure.
Subtle Spice: Hints of ginger or a delicate nuttiness might emerge.
The palate of the 2009 Grande Réserve Brut is anticipated to be:
Fuller Bodied: The warm vintage and extended aging contribute to a richer and more generous texture.
Integrated Acidity: While still providing freshness, the acidity will be well-integrated with the wine's richness.
Layers of Flavor: The evolved aromas will translate onto the palate with added complexity – think notes of honey, toasted nuts, and mature orchard fruit.
Fine and Persistent Bubbles: The mousse will be elegant and well-integrated.
Long and Savory Finish: Expect a finish that is long, complex, and potentially with savory or nutty undertones.
Who's it For: This is for the discerning Champagne lover who appreciates the complexity and depth that comes with vintage aging. If you seek a Champagne with developed character, a rich texture, and a long, satisfying finish, the 2009 Le Brun de Neuville is calling your name.
Pairing Power: With its developed complexity and richness, this vintage Champagne would pair beautifully with:
Rich Seafood Dishes: Lobster, scallops, or pan-seared fish with butter sauces.
Poultry with Rich Sauces: Roasted chicken or guinea fowl with creamy or nutty preparations.
Mature Cheeses: Hard, aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère.
Dishes with Truffle: The earthy notes in the Champagne can complement truffle flavors.
The Bottom Line:The 2009 Le Brun de Neuville is a vintage Champagne that showcases the potential of the Côte de Sézanne terroir in a warmer year, enhanced by significant time on its lees. It offers a richer and more complex experience than non-vintage bottlings, with layers of developed fruit, toasty notes, and a lingering finish. It's a Champagne to be savored and appreciated for its maturity and depth.
