1994 Domaine Chandon Vintage Brut

DOMAINE CHANDON – THE SECRET MUSEUM COLLECTION

Domaine Chandon is Australia’s foremost sparkling wine producer. During a conversation on the high costs of sparkling wine production, Chandon’s financial controller, Rob Peebles, let out that a number of wines from the best vintages had been set aside and deliberately “lost”. This smelt too much like a private cache of top wine set aside for Directors - the catch was how to get hold of it! We had a lucky break, Dr. Tony Jordan was in France and winemaker, Wayne Donaldson was recently promoted to run Chandon California. The person left in charge of this “museum” was a financial controller and Peebles’ only passion in life is money. (It’s so easy to deal with people when there are no emotions attached.) A deal was done - on the condition that we had to taste everything first and subject to quality we would proceed. Let us say, we have not been disappointed.

An outstanding complex, aperitif style methode champenoise made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Brilliant, pale straw colour. Excellent mousse with very fine very persistent bead and absolutely no hint of age. The nose shows aromas of vegemite, yeast autolysis and a meaty (but not disagreeable) end note. Creamy palate texture with distinct yeast and citrus flavours. A fresher style with excellent acid balance and very long aftertaste. Cellar a further 3-5 years. Very limited stocks