TNs: 2008 and 2009 Leflaive Macon

Ordered the 2009 at the DB Bistro in Miami. Initial taste was sort of what I expected: Richness and approachability of the vintage with the usual Leflaive-y thing going on. However, even as we were just catching it the young and talented somm Caleb Ganzer was already at the table with a bottle of the 2008. He said, correctly, that the taste he had poured to season the decanter had quickly taken on the characteristic of flat Champagne and he felt like we would be better served by the '08. The 2008 was crisp and minerally with the polished character of Leflaive providing more background sensation. Where the 2009 became increasingly blousy and confectioned over time the 2008 showed a nice sturdy backbone of acidity, minerally/lemon-tinged fruit and an appealing level of sweet tropical fruit. Good stuff here but I would find the 2009 a short term consumer at best and worrisome if owned in any sort of multiple bottle collection. To say the least, some great service and a real pro at work.

I had the 09 on saturday, very disappointing, flabby with no backbone. I really expected a lot more. So many other Macons to buy for less.

Was this the Macon-Verze? I’ve had the 09 several times now, and although I liked it, I would tend to agree with your assessment. I need to round up some 08 [cheers.gif]

Yep. Just didn’t type it as I was having a hard time with the typing on the Blackberry at that time. Comparing one to the other was pretty dramatic.

Bought the '09 based upon a very positive experience with the '08. First go on the '09 didn’t deliver, but I chalked it up to less time on the cork. Your assessment has me a bit more bummed, but I liked it enough to suffer through the remaining bottles without too much complaining.

Cheers,
fred