…those in the know

This Brut Réserve NV expresses their quintessential style. This most generous cuvée is summarised with a unique equation: 60/50/10. 60 refers to the number of crus that are tailor-made from the harvest year. A blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier which are vinified individually in stainless steel vats. 50 refers to the incredibly high proportion of reserve wines. Which is equally divided between Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, to ensure complexity and indulgence of their Brut Réserve. And last but not least the 10 refers to the average age of their reserve wines, another exception in Champagne. Sourced from the best crus from the best years, the wines placed in reserve are kept in vats for between 5 and 15 years - if not more, to develop complexity.
You may have heard that this champagne is ‘known by those in the know’. Produced in small volumes that has no intention of increasing. The wine is complex, engaging and indulgent. Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV takes its time before it is released - plus on each bottle they share the important information on ageing with the year the wine was placed on lees for secondary fermentation in their chalk cellars as well as the year it was disgorged - which for this bottle was 6 years.

★ As you pour, your flute is filled with a luminous gold hue with a persistent and vivacious seam of bubbles. These engage and prepare the senses for the concentration to follow. Thanks to the reserve wines, this blend expresses a complex and voluptuous aroma of freshly baked brioche, ripe sun-drenched mango, apricots, a note of dried fruits, almond and walnuts. The textured palate showcases layers of nougat and thin pastry, filled with grilled peaches. The ageing combined with the selection of reserve wines gives a lush generous character. And infused like that of marble - seamed waves of ginger, coriander, praline and vanilla that carry through to the lingering finish.

This Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV has 12% Alc./vol. - with a dosage of 9g/L of sugar. Chill gently and serve in a generous flute or aromatic wine glass at 8°- 10°C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 21/12/2024)
Drinking perfectly well this season; and will hold well for another 8 - 10 years.

FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with grilled whole fish, stuffed crab, slow roasted chicken or turkey w/ seasoned stuffing & potato-gratin, roast pork w/ crackling & apple sauce, rich vegetation cuisine and an aged creamy brie cheese - enjoy.