> Champagne vintages: the character and reputation of the great years (2015, 2012, 2008, 2002, 1996, 1990…) to choose a vintage champagne.

*Source : https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/*

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Vintages

# Champagne's great years

Champagne is only vintage-dated in the best years. Here is the character of each great vintage to guide you before buying or gifting.

[

Sun-drenched vintage

### 2015

Ripe, generous champagnes from a hot summer.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2015/)[

Vintage of freshness

### 2014

Taut wines, Chardonnay at its best.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2014/)[

Late vintage

### 2013

Freshness and tension, long ageing.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2013/)[

Great vintage

### 2012

Balance and concentration, highly sought after.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2012/)[

Benchmark vintage

### 2008

Acidity and purity, exceptional ageing.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2008/)[

Generous vintage

### 2004

Abundant and balanced, very approachable.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2004/)[

Great vintage

### 2002

Power and elegance combined.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/2002/)[

Legendary vintage

### 1996

Rare acidity, very long ageing.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/1996/)[

Great vintage

### 1990

Richness and maturity.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/1990/)[

Classic vintage

### 1988

Structure and precision.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/1988/)[

Acclaimed vintage

### 1985

Elegance after a harsh winter.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/1985/)[

Abundant vintage

### 1982

Generosity and fruit.

](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/millesimes/1982/)

Going further: see [our guides](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/blog/) on vintage champagne and [how to choose and gift](https://champagne-discovery-tours.com/en/choisir-offrir/) a fine bottle.