2006 Piper Heisdeck Cuvee Rare

This was quite lively and drinking well, remarkably accessible for 06; this and taittinger cdc are some of the best wines from the vintage. Some lemon, hay, honeysuckle and crumpet on the nose with some stone fruits on the palate along with slate and acidity. The finish was elegant and pleasant.

1990 Dom Perignon

I haven’t had a great bottle of this in awhile and this one was no exception. Aged champagne aficionados may have enjoyed this more. Lots of butterscotch and caramel on the nose, along with some fading Meyer lemon. The palate had more sherried notes with a bit of acidic backbone, and the finish was long. There just wasn’t much energy or freshness. I have one bottle that’s been stored since release at temp that I’ll open sooner than later, I think storage conditions on these 90s may have played a role.

1982 Dom Perignon

In contrast, this 82 was firing on all cylinders, with incredible freshness and energy. While there was a hint of butterscotch on the nose, there was also some toasted brioche and lemon zest. The palate was lively, with some kaffir lime and more lemon, as well as crisp acidity and seashells. The finish was incredibly long. I guess this just goes to show how important bottle variation can be.