Given Lanson's reputation as a cellar-worthy giant (more on that below), we are also offering a special case discount of $44.83 a bottle. This sparkler will age... magnificently, although I can't imagine it drinking any better than it is right now.
It's like buying dugout seats at the cost of sitting in the bleachers!
The 1996 Lanson Brut Gold Label is super concentrated with shavings of tangerine and lemon that are exquisitely sculpted into a graceful, tapering form that is focused and mineral-laden.
On the three separate occasions that I've experienced this bottling, it had a glowing energy on the palate well beyond the 40-second mark. Over the course of the evening the wine becomes increasingly rich, culminating in one of the most enjoyable, under-$100 Champagne experiences of the last year.
I personally came to the 1996 Lanson only after phenomenal experiences with older Champagnes from this house - the 1976, 79 and 82 out of magnum were nothing less than a window into what Lanson can achieve with long-term cellaring, the true test of a great Champagne. (We have a few remaining magnums of the 1979 and 82, so don't take my word for it - click below to see our real-time inventory.)
These aged Lansons were so good in fact, that the proverbial light bulb went off and I began to hunt down the 96 to sample. It was worth the search and today we all reap the reward!
With 1996 Champagnes both disappearing quickly and skyrocketing in price, this may be the last opportunity to acquire a great Champagne from this legendary vintage at an absurdly low price.
For those out to collect the great Champagnes of the vintage, the news gets worse when you consider that only 2002 stands any chance of rivaling the towering 1996s - and the top wines of this vintage will not be released for many years.
I can't think of a better wine that will simultaneously thrill even the choosiest Champagne connoisseur, delight your drinking buddies and impress your wine geek friends. Spectacular vintage Champagne at a non-vintage price! Call the store as soon as possible at (212) 980-9463, or click below to order.
