G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut Champagne 1975

Light gold. Buttered apple and pear aromas, with hints of anise and brioche. Medium in weight, with a silky texture and sweet orchard fruit flavors framed by gentle acidity. Broad and rich on the finish, with a lingering note of sweet butter.

Aromas and flavors of toast and mineral frame the citrus core in this elegant, focused bubbly. This is firm and lively, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2014.

Golden yellow to the eye with tinges of jade green. The sparkle is gentle, elegant and sustained. On the nose there are citrus hints and rich fruit aromas of white peach and apricot. These lengthen into notes of vanilla, dried fruits and honey. On the palate, the complex fusion of fresh fruit and caramel point to the wine's inherent quality. Gentle acidity, sparkle that's ample but not overbearing and an unusually long-lasting taste are the hallmarks of a balanced finish, consistent and multi-faceted.

Rich and open, with floral, apple and pear flavors and a touch of lemon for accent. Just fades a little on the finish. Drink now.

Toast and dried fruit notes mix in this very harmonious dry Champagne, which is full of flavor — dried apricot, candied orange peel, nut and smoke — but still elegant and lightweight. The rich, toasty note lingers on the vibrant finish. Drink now through 2020.

Toast and dried fruit notes mix in this very harmonious dry Champagne, which is full of flavor andmdash; dried apricot, candied orange peel, nut and smoke andmdash; but still elegant and lightweight. The rich, toasty note lingers on the vibrant finish. Drink now through 2020.

This must be one of the most familiar nonvintage Champagnes, so it’s good to be able to report that it is much improved. The dosage has been lowered, and there is considerable freshness, crispness with apple and toast. It is full-bodied but well balanced.