Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve NV

Description

Decanter Award Winner 2021 - Silver - 91 Points

Nose of hazelnut, Macadamia and lemongrass. Pretty lemon-driven autolysis; fennel, ginger stem and a touch of slate. Very complete.

Founded in 1851 by Charles-Camille Heidsieck, the original 'Champagne Charlie', the foundation of its modern fame rests on the unrivalled quality of its wines, which receive countless awards and accolades year after year. This success is attributable to the strength and depth of their winemaking team over the past three decades: Daniel Thibault, Regis Camus, Thierry Roset and Cyril Brun have between them been awarded 'Sparkling Winemaker of the Year' at the International Wine Challenge sixteen times. No other house has won more than twice.

Cyril Brun took over as Chef de Cave in 2015. The winemaking philosophy is simple, and is evident in the Brut Reserve: grapes are sourced from 60 different cru’s across the region; fermentation and ageing of the base wines takes place primarily in stainless steel to preserve freshness; it is a blend of 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir and 20% Meunier, including at least 40% reserve wines, the average age of which is 10 years; and finally, the Brut reserve is aged in bottle on its lees for at least three years prior to release. These components combine to give a wine that is more 'Premium Cuvee' than 'Brut Reserve'.

92 points. 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier with 40% reserves. The 2016 base has really picked up since release, and is showing more of the true 'Charles' character that lovers have been spoilt with over a decade where the Brut Reserve saw – not entirely by design – extended lees ageing. There is a voluptuousness to the palate, silky candied fruits and toasted almond, lifted with the energy of grilled citrus, cushioned with praline and red fruit tart. Always a good idea to give these wines a little time on cork. 2017 base also 92 points. timatkin.com