Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve NV Champagne

This Champagne always has a higher proportion (40% or more) of mature, reserve wine averaging over 10 years old in its blend than most other Champagne houses, which helps to explain its wonderful complexity and intensity. Nutty, slightly biscuity on the nose – very fresh and still fruity at the same time. Intense acidity, firm structure and a long finish – a perfect balance between fruitiness and biscuit flavours on the palate.

This current bottling (available from January 2021) was “mis en cave” in 2017. It is based on the 2016 vintage with 41% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir and 19% Pinot Meunier. It was blended by cellar master Cyril Brun,  who has reduced the dosage and increased the amount of reserve wine to 46% with 5% barrel-aged base wine. This has increased the complexity and texture without giving any perceptible oak character to the wine.

It was awarded 18+/20pts by Julia Harding MW for Jancisrobinson.com in January 2021, a score which ranks it well ahead of its non-vintage competitors and alongside the likes of Krug and Dom Perignon! 

“Subtle lemony nose. Stony, too, with the merest hint of white blossom, holds up really well in the glass. The smoky, reductive character is very slight but highlights the mineral/stony aspect. The citrus fruit and peel are ripe but there is masses of tension. The mousse is fine and gentle and also lasts really well in the glass. Becomes a little more toasty with air. Deep yet extremely refined, pulling in to a precise finish” 18+/20pts Julia Harding MW, Jancisrobinson.com