Vivian Liang | December 28, 2020
New Year’s Eve Selection
Champagne
Sotheby’s Own Label champagne is my go-to choice for its versatility. Another delicious value choice is the crowd-pleasing Bollinger Brut Special Cuvee NV. I adore Philipponat’s Clos des Goisses 2002, which is simply stunning, with layers of complexity and great structure. And Krug, I can drink Krug on all occasions, and it never disappoints with its generosity and concentration. Or perhaps, the rich Dom Perignon P2 1995 and the heavenly Clos St Hilaire 1996 from Billecart-Salmon, one of the rarest and most prestigious champagnes.
Bordeaux
From St Emilion, Belair 1998 shows graceful maturity and the classically styled Leoville Barton 2008 both over-deliver for the price. I love Pontet Canet 2008 for its balance of flamboyance and structure, while Montrose 2010 is drinking surprisingly well for a wine that will last decades more. For those wanting to treat yourself to a First Growth, Latour 1995 is drinking superbly but still retains the power that one would expect from this legendary Cabernet terroir. Margaux 1983 and Haut Brion 1989 are two of the finest vintages for these iconic Chateau and both are showing at their peak. Nothing is better than capping off the year with something sweet and indulgent, such as the marvelous, structured Chateau d'Yquem 1988.
Burgundy
I love Ramonet’s Chassagne Boudriotte 2014 for its freshness and precision, whilst Bonneau du Martray’s Corton Charlemagne 2002 is on the richer end of the spectrum. I recommend Joseph Roty’s Gevrey Chambertin 2016 and Coquard-Loison-Fleurot Chambolle Musigny 2016 for their great value, both are wonderful examples of their village. Launay-Horiot is making amazingly aromatic wines from Pommard, a rising star to watch. I love the incredible depth and persistent finish of Les Beaux Monts made by Perrot-Minot. The Gevrey Chambertin icon, Armand Rousseau, is always my special treat for New Year’s Eve and I really enjoy the 2015 Charmes Chambertin 2015, with its balance of structure, elegance and purity. Last but not least, the fabulous D.R.C. Grands Echezeaux 1998, a prime example of this great grand cru from THE Burgundy Domaine.
