Rare Millésime 2013
The house that used to be Piper-Heidsieck’s prestige cuvée, still with the same exquisite golden tiara
Grape Makeup:
70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir
Sweetness Level:
Brut
Ageing on Lees:
8+ years
Price:
$$$
Cellar:
10+ years
Category:
Collectible
Photos
What
The house spun off in 2018 that used to be Piper-Heidsieck’s prestige cuvée is now led by Piper-Heidsieck chef de cave Émilien Boutillat.
Where
Reims; typically comes from chardonnay vineyards in Côte des Blancs Grands Crus Avize, Chouilly and Oger.
Why
This cuvée blossomed under the leadership of legendary chef de cave Régis Camus, Boutillat’s predecessor, during which time it came to be considered one of the finest prestige cuvées in the region. Rhe 13th release of the cuvée from 2013, like the 2008 that came before it, is a beautifully refined, austere vintage with all the verticality and brightness needed to produce a characteristic Rare.
What Else
Since inception, Rare has occasionally been released a rosé (2007, 2008, 2012 and 2014) or even exclusively in magnums (1978, a vintage known for its very high acidity).
Tasting Notes
A shimmery, edgy nose has a white pepper nervousness over kumquat fruit and a pleasing base note of smoky cedar and sandalwood. Showing a very energetic mousse still, the wine’s blazing acidity adds to its energy, amplified by a greenish peppery quality that persists. Increasingly herbal toward the finish, this sees a tightening bitterness start to enter along with structuring phenolics. Linear and taut, this has years and years ahead of it.
Try It With
A delicately flavoured but buttery classic, like Sole Meunière.
When To Drink
Apéritif or entrées.
Perfect For
The jewellery lover with exquisite taste.
Tatler Tip
The jewellery lover with exquisite taste.
TL/DR
Linear, energy-filled and refined.
Supplier
Northeast Wines & Spirits
