93 points Wine Spectator: "[$146 list] A silky, mouthwatering version, with appealing aromatics of apple blossom, spun honey, and ground anise and cardamom accenting flavors of persimmon, lemon meringue pie and tangerine. Full of finesse through to the lasting finish. Drink now through 2027. 78 cases imported. (12/15/12)"

Michael Edwards (The Finest Wines of Champagne): "Vilmart was one of the estates setting the gold standard for grower Champagnes in the late 20th century... Laurent Champs directs everything with meticulous care. The wines are fermented in oak casks, most being large foudres. His perfectionist approach pays off best in his top-of-the-line Vintage Champagnes... The line reaches its apogee in the vintages of Coeur de Cuvée. As the name implies, the wines are made from the best part, the 'heart' (or first pressings) of the cuvée. They are fermented in 225-liter barriques. The wood can dominate this great wine for several years until it approaches its maturity, but from about 9-13 years of age, it shows great class and new complexities every time you taste it. So give it plenty of air--or better still, decant and serve it in wine glasses rather than flutes. (2009)"