G. H. Mumm & Cie. - Cordon Rouge Brut NV (750ml)

Mumm Cordon Rouge possesses a brilliant yellow golden color. The bubbles are lively, intense, and light. The bouquet is fruity with initial notes of peaches, pears, and green apples followed by flavors of candied lemon and ripe apricots. The long cellar aging provides flavors of vanilla, roasted nuts and a hint of toast. On the palate this cuvée reveals a delicate freshness followed by the power and full-bodied character of the Pinot Noir. The finish is a combination of the lightness of the Chardonnay and the fruitiness of the Pinot Noir balanced by the roundness of the Pinot Meunier. The "témoigne" or long finish, is the result of the carefully chosen infusion of terroir and reserve wines.

Mumm's new generation of Cordon Rouge bottlings is a pleasure. The wine has depth and great full swathes of pear and red apple fruit flavors. It is well integrated, with initial softness tightened up with acidity and yeast flavors.

The NV Brut Cordon Rouge opens with attractive, open aromatics that suggest a level of ripeness that doesn?t quite come through on the palate. Still, this fresh, perfumed Champagne is a solid effort in its price range. Peaches, apricots and flowers and complexity on the finish. This is Lot: 1338 L1390907471, no disgorgement date provided. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011.