Charles Heidsieck has built exceptional relationships with the best
growers across Champagne. Precise selection of grapes takes
place from 60 specific sites. Vineyards which are integral to
producing grapes that sustain the house style are Oger for
Chardonnay for its texture, floral notes and ageing ability,
Ambonnay for Pinot Noir for its power, vinosity and fruit, and
Verneuil for Meunier for its acidity, body and aromatics.
VINIFICATION
Fermentation of the base wines takes place primarily in stainless
steel tanks with just a small fraction fermented in old oak barrels,
adding to the texture of the finished wine. After the first
fermentation, the wine is racked to separate the lees and then
undergoes malolactic fermentation to soften the natural acidity.
After blending, using 40-46% reserve wines with an average age of
10 years, the cuvée is bottled and selected yeast added to begin
the second fermentation. To achieve the depth and complexity
required by the house style, Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve ages in
chalk cellars for 36-48 months before disgorging; much longer than
the legal requirement of 15 months.
TASTING NOTES
The Brut Réserve NV is a radiant pale gold colour with fine,
persistent bubbles. The nose is characterised by complex pastry
aromas, with an opulent combination of ripe apricot, mango,
greengages, dried fruits, pistachio and almond. The palate begins
with a silky-smooth sensation, developing into ripe fleshy apricot,
melon and enticing plum pastry notes and delicate spice. There is
perfect balance of freshness and generosity.
