Lanson Brut Champagne Noble Cuvée 2002

97 points James Suckling: "This is a fantastic 2002 with a very agile, elegant palate. It’s not heavy, like many 2002s. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a beautiful center palate. Subtle bread dough with some pie crust, light strawberry and mineral character. Extremely long and flavorful. Disgorged in July 2017. Drink now. (3/5/21)"

95 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(70% chardonnay, 30% pinot noir from Verzenay; no malolactic fermentation; aged 13 years on lees). A resounding and compelling case for the marriage of chardonnay and pinot noir, with the definition of the great crus of the Côte des Blancs holding hands intimately with the elegant yet generous presence of Verzenay pinot noir. Maintaining a medium yellow hue, it is unravelling with all of the captivating theatrics of 17 years of age, boasting brioche and almond complexity amidst creamy texture. A very long finish is sustained by the eloquent draw of malic acidity. (2020-2021)"

95 points Wine Enthusiast: "The great 2002 vintage has produced some remarkable wines and this falls into that category. Still so fresh, with swathes of mineral texture and tight acidity, it is still developing. Hints of toast point to a future where the wine will be rounder and with even more complexity. For now, the crisp apple, pear and softer yellow fruits dominate. Drink from 2017. Alcohol 12.5%. (Dec 2015)"

Gourmet Traveller Wine: "The 2002 Noble Cuvée certainly did not need any malo. It is a great and perfectly balanced Champagne. It’s drinking superbly at 17 years of age, possibly the last of the 2002 Champagnes to hit the market. The 2002 is an exceptional vintage – impossibly fine and poised, yet spellbinding in its complexity. At A$210 (US$162) it is terrific value. Most comparable deluxe cuvées are at least double the price, and most ’02 wines have been sold long ago. Noble Cuvée is 70% chardonnay, 30% pinot noir, all from grand cru vineyards. (Aug/Sep 2019)"