NV Champagne

[Winent]

Quick question. How long can you keep NV Champagne (properly stored)?

[Bucko]

It depends on the producer -- some have pretty good longevity.

Bucko

[tomstevenson]

Bucko's right, but to give you an idea of the range of potential longevity, virtually all NV Champagnes can be kept (under good storage conditions) 6 months without any noticeable change. Many will not show much change for 12 months, although some can change radically (one radical change for the better is Moet, which always develops a nice toastiness within this relatively short time, converting the wine from bland and inoffensive to something that real Champagne lovers can appreciate). If the Champagne is of the light, fresh, flowery style, then the second year often brings a gradual change from floral to plumper fruitiness. Between two and three years of age, the toasty and/or biscuity post-disgorgement aromas begin to take grip. The greatest NV Champagnes can improve for decades.

[Winent]

Thanks for the great answer! I love Champagne and sparkling wine. Can you guys recommend some good reading on the subject?

[Bucko]

You might like to start with one of my favorites, Champagne, by Tom Stevenson.....

Bucko