The 2008 Extra Brut Vieille Vigne de Levant Cramant Grand Cru is a big, imposing Champagne. Dried pear, smoke, slate, dried herbs and crushed flowers all resonate in the glass. The 2008 carries a real sense of old-vine gravitas and power. There is no shortage of intensity, but the slightly forward, oxidative flavor profile leads me to think the 2008 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Disgorged: September 2016. Dosage is 2 grams per liter.
