2008 Rare Champagne Magnum

97 Points, Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator
Like a stallion out of the gate, this shows an initial explosion of power, in the form of mouthwatering flavors and fine texture, before quickly settling into an elegant gait. The racy acidity is seamlessly knit, buoying the lacy mousse and flavors of cassis, toasted brioche and tangerine, with accents of candied ginger, hazelnut and fleur de sel lingering on the long, creamy finish. Drink now through 2035.

96 Points, Falstaff
Lemon zest frames the creamy richness on the nose that has hints of chalk and coconut macaroon but also reveals a beautiful depth that evokes summer rain on limestone soils. The palate comes with all the precision and exquisite freshness of 2008 but encapsulates a truffle- like complexity at its concentrated core: there is a floral hit of peony, something rich reminiscent of milk chocolate ganache and more of that virile and pervasive lemon freshness. This is glorious and somehow manages to convey great richness within that elegant and characteristic framework set by the amazing 2008 vintage. A.K.

96 Points, James Suckling
This has fantastic concentration, with notes of seashells, waxed and preserved lemons, blanched almonds, toasted coconuts and a smoky touch like tobacco and white ash. Waxy and textured, with very fine, almost imperceptible bubbles. Long, mineral and serious finish. Still tight. 70% chardonnay and 30% pinot noir, mainly from Montagne de Reims. Disgorged end of 2022. 8g/L dosage. Tasted from magnum, which will be launched later this year. Drink or hold.

17+++/20 Points - Jancis Robinson 
I invested in three bottles of Rare 2008 a while back. Based on this evidence, I am very happy with that decision! Still very closed and tight, this needs 3–5 years. Great complexity and depth, once the wine unfurls in the glass. Very fine mousse, long finish. A fine wine.