We have a fantastic late release from Alfred Gratien today commemorating the 160th anniversary of this great house. Alfred Gratien was founded in 1864 outside of Epernay and, since its conception, has followed many of the same principles of the early days of the House. This is similar to the 2008 Brut Millésimé that was previously released, but this rendition saw much more time on the lees (15 years total) and was just disgorged this year. The Champagne is vinified 100% in 228-liter oak barrels with no malolactic fermentation. This use of oak is the key to the Gratien style: it rounds out the edges and complements the blocked malo, becoming energetic with very precise acidity and age-worthiness. The fruit is sourced from the House's own vineyards and carefully selected purchased fruit in Avize and Cramant. Cellar master Nicolas Jaeger chose 2008 for being one of the most spectacular vintages of all time, which he states is on par with 1996. This 2008 shows outstanding freshness with excellent tension, purity, and precision. The Champagne has an excellent structure for aging with an impressive mineral spine with a melange of fresh fruit, flowers, and brioche. This is classic 2008 champagne and a very rare find. The 2008 Paradis, which is Gratiens tete de cuvee, was fantastic, and seeing all the extra effort that went into this Champagne, this should be even better. A rare find, we have the only bottles currently available in the USA.