Sparklings from the Champagne mature very well. Here we have two examples from Jean Pernet and Paul Bara, one non-vintage and one from 2004.

Although the Jean Pernet NV Grand Cru Reserve was bought in 2012 and is now over 10 years old, this sparkling begins now to be ready to drink. With light golden colour and a beautiful perlage, blossoms and citrus, it is fresh, precise, mineral and has a light sweetness. You have no aging notes, it will still need time to get on its peak and it will hold for decades. Together with Krug Grande Cuvee and Laurent-Perrier Grand Siecle, it shows that non-vintage Champagne can be as great as vintage ones. 18/20 points.

The Paul Bara 2004 Bouzy Grand Cru Annonciade is far too young. It needs aeration and has blossoms and after a while a bit of caramel. It is mineral, balanced, extremely elegant, creamy and slightly sweet with a perfect structure. 18.5/20 points.