What

The house spun off in 2018 that used to be Piper-Heidsieck’s Prestige Cuvée and headed by former Heidsieck Chef de Cave Régis Camus.

Where

Reims

Why

As only the 10th “Rare” produced since its inaugural 1976 vintage, this cuvée lives up to its name. Typically made from (unusual) Montagne de Reims chardonnay, the wines have a searing freshness beneath their toasty extravagance. No oak was used; the smoke and toast come instead from prolonged time on lees.

What else

Rare has collaborated with ultra-exclusive French jeweller Mellerio for “Le Secret,” a tribute to Marie Antoinette, the “muse of both houses.” It’s only bottled in magnums adorned with gold ribbons, over 500 diamonds plus a diamond, ruby, sapphire or emerald of at least one carat.

Tasting Notes

Very toasty, rich and warm with some smoky, tar-like elements sitting over lemon curd and butter pastry. The palate is pleasantly slippery and round but with an upright spine of acidity. Chalkiness sits on the front of the palate, but the finish is very clean with no volatility or sense of over-ripeness.

Try It With 

Beef dishes: stir-fried or grilled.

When To Drink

After meal or in a club.

Perfect For

Your jewellery loving friend.

TL/DR

Baroque toastiness anchored by a tight acidic core.

Supplier

Northeast Wines & Spirits