A creamy texture sets the stage for bread dough, lemon and floral notes in this lively Champagne, ending with a tangy citrus aftertaste. 87Pts Wine Spectator

The 1997 R.D. opens with explosive aromatics that meld seamlessly into layers of ripe fruit. The signature slightly oxidative notes are there, but there is also more than enough fruit to provide terrific balance. This is an especially accessible, opulent R.D. that can be drunk young or cellared. The R.D. starts off as the same wine as the Grande Annee but sees an extended period of aging on its lees prior to being disgorged. In 1997 the R.D. is 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. This bottle was disgorged on March 25, 2008. The 1997 is a great introduction to the R.D style, and a bottle that can be enjoyed while the 1995 and 1996 age. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. 95Pts e-RobertParker

This medium-bodied Champagne will make a delicious aperitif but it also has enough stuffing to pair with a wide variety of foods. The Rose is 62% Pinot Noir, 24% Chardonnay and 14% Meunier (roughly the same blend as the Special Cuvee), with the addition of 5% still Pinot juice (2004) that saw three weeks of maceration on the skins. The dosage is 9-10 grams. The high percentage of red grapes contributes to this wine's big personality. 89Pts eRobertParker.com