Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires 2007
The house once known for the extravagant promoter “Champagne Charlie” that has rebuilt its reputation to become one of the region’s undisputed stars
Grape Makeup:
100% Chardonnay
Sweetness Level:
Brut
Ageing on Lees:
12 years
Price:
$$$ (V)
Cellar:
10+ years
Category:
Collectible
Photos
What
A comparatively small maison founded in 1851 that is now basking in the glory of its rehabilitated reputation, with exciting new cuvées and perfected classics.
Where
Reims; 75 hectares of estate vineyards are shared with Piper-Heidsieck; wine for Blanc de Millénaires comes from Grands Crus Avize, Cramant, Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger and Vertus Premier Cru.
Why
The chardonnay-dominant Blanc de Millénaires captures the elegance of some of the best “light” vintages in champagne, like 2004 and 2007, which many other houses disregarded. Blanc de Millénaires is only produced in exceptional years; 2007 is the 7th since 1983 and was chosen for its “anachronistic” growing conditions, with an early start to the growing season and cool, wet conditions that helped lock in acidity.
What Else
The new Champagne Charlie cuvée, based on the 2016 vintage, is made with an astonishing 80% reserve wines, some aged on lees for up to 25 years, a tribute to the blending talent of the founder.
Tasting Notes
A little subdued at this moment, the nose is a gentle melange of citrus fruit and toasted baguette, with sophisticated overtones of conifer wood and citrus leaf. Polished and poised from the moment it hits the palate, there is a linearity and freshness to this acid-driven vintage as it blazes along the palate, building aromatic intensity without picking up any weight. It finishes very angular and fine, with taut, firm contours.
Try It With
Delicate, refined meals, like a springtime kaiseki.
When To Drink
Entrées.
Perfect For
The friend whose garments are always impeccably tailored.
Tatler Tip
This is one of the most admired cuvées among wine insiders, especially those who enjoyed the enormous cache of 1995 Blanc de Millénaires, which lasted from its release until the release of 2004, but has sadly run out now.
TL/DR
Citrussy and fine with conifer nuances.
Supplier
Kedington Wines
