The Wine Animal Verdict: This 2009 Champagne from Le Brun de Neuville is a creature of mature elegance, a testament to a well-ripened vintage and extended aging. It's not a youthful sprint, but a poised and graceful glide across the palate, offering a harmonious blend of developed fruit, toasty complexity, and a lingering sense of finesse. This Champagne speaks of a specific year, revealing the nuances and depth that time can bring.

What's in the Cage: The 2009 vintage in Champagne is generally regarded as excellent, producing ripe and generous fruit. Le Brun de Neuville's 2009 bottling is typically a "Millésimé" or vintage Champagne, meaning it's crafted from the grapes of a single harvest year. It's often a blend with a majority of Chardonnay, reflecting the house style in the Côte de Sézanne, complemented by Pinot Noir. Expect extended aging on its lees in their cellars, contributing significant complexity and a refined mousse. The dosage is often Extra Brut, emphasizing the wine's inherent character and freshness.

Tasting Notes (based on available information and the vintage characteristics):

On the prowl, the nose is mature and inviting:

• Developed Fruit Aromas: Expect notes of ripe orchard fruits like baked apple and pear, perhaps with hints of preserved citrus or even a touch of dried apricot.
• Pronounced Autolytic Complexity: Aromas of toasted brioche, warm bread, hazelnut, and almond will be evident from the extended lees aging.
• Subtle Floral Undertones: Delicate notes of dried flowers or honeysuckle can add another layer of elegance.
• Mineral Nuances: A characteristic chalky minerality from the Côte de Sézanne terroir will provide a grounding element.

The palate is where this mature creature shows its harmonious nature:

• Fine and Persistent Mousse: The bubbles will be well-integrated and contribute to a creamy texture.
• Excellent Balance: A lovely interplay of the developed fruit richness, vibrant acidity that keeps it fresh, and the savory complexity from aging.
• Complex Flavors: The palate will echo the nose with flavors of baked fruit, toasty notes, and a distinct mineral edge.
• Long and Elegant Finish: The finish should be persistent and refined, leaving a satisfying impression of depth and maturity.

Who's it For: This is for the Champagne enthusiast who appreciates the nuances of vintage Champagne and the complexity that comes with age. If you enjoy Champagnes with developed fruit, prominent toasty notes, and a well-integrated character, the Le Brun de Neuville 2009 is a rewarding choice.

Pairing Power: This vintage Champagne's complexity and developed character make it a versatile food wine, pairing well with:

• Rich Seafood Dishes: Lobster thermidor or scallops with brown butter.
• Roasted Poultry: Especially with savory stuffings or mushroom sauces.
• Mature Cheeses: Aged Comté or Brie.
• Dishes with Nuts or Mushrooms: Its nutty and earthy notes will complement these flavors.

The Bottom Line: The Le Brun de Neuville 2009 Champagne is a mature and elegant expression of the vintage, showcasing the quality of the fruit and the benefits of extended aging on lees. It offers a delightful combination of developed fruit flavors, complex toasty notes, and a refreshing acidity, making it a sophisticated choice for special occasions or for those seeking a Champagne with depth and character.