Vilmart & Cie 2017 Champagne "Coeur De Cuvee", Rilly la Montagne

I know it’s early in the year, but we just may have found our Champagne of the Year from the legendary Vilmart house, founded in 1890.  The Coeur de Cuvée could be considered their top-of-the-line bottling, and as such, it carries a premium price, which it deserves.  The cuvée is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, fermented and aged in older barrels which provide the rich texture.  With a medium straw color, there is plenty of opulent fruit which provides a fullness in the mouth and a very, very long finish.  Spectacular.  Thrilling.