Maison Deutz Blanc De Noirs 1982

[nedekorg]

I received the Champagne listed in the subject as a gift about 3 years ago. I'm curious about a few things:
1) It's been kept cold and dark but standing up for most of that time. The cork is wrapped so I'm thinking it has a good chance of still being ok.
2) Just to get a measure of the person who gave it to me, what kind of thought and/or money probably went into purchasing it.
3) Good bottle to start the new year with?

If not, what sparkling or white wine in the would be? I'm thinking one in the $10-20 range and one in the $25-35.

Thanks.