1998 Henriot Enchanteleurs Brut Champagne

The name “ Enchanteleur†borne by this rare wine refers to the cellar workers in the days when vinification was carried out only in barrels. Their work consisted in particular of piling up the casks on wooden beams. It was said that they “put the casks on chantiers (gantries)â€, that they “enchantelaientâ€... They traditionally enjoyed the privilege of making for themselves a small Champagne cuvee produced from the finest wines.

To enhance the remarkable character of the 1998 vintage, Champagne Henriot has blended the strength of the pinot noir and the elegance of the chardonnay. We have chosen grapes from 6 of the most prestigious “grands crus†in Champagne : Mailly Champagne, Verzy, Verzenay on Montagne de Reims, Mesnil-sur-Oger, Avize, Chouilly on Côte des Blancs. A blend of 50% chardonnay and 50% pinot noir.

(93 Points) "Light, bright gold. Poached pear, flowers, honey and toasty lees on the smoky, spice-accented nose. Broad and juicy, offering open-knit orchard and pit fruit flavors braced by tangy acidity. Smooth, sappy and smoky on the finish, which shows excellent clarity and closing bite. Tighter than the outstanding 1996 version and missing just a bit of that wine's heft." The Wine Advocate