NV - Charles Heidsieck, Brut Reserve

Charles Heidsieck’s signature cuvée, the Brut Réserve NV, is a blend of 40% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay largely Grand and Premier Cru fruit, with 20% of Pinot Meunier. The “signature” element is the high percentage of reserve wines in this non-vintage cuvée; 52% is Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reserve wines that range from 12 to 23 years old, and the 48% balance is from the 2018 base vintage fermented in stainless steel, with 8-9% fermented in barrel. It is aged for 4 years and has a nine gram per liter dosage. A lovely, light golden color, it opens with notes of crème brulé and light toast that accent underlying lemon cream and white peach aromas. The light to medium-bodied palate is textured and supple with a fresh, lemony acid line spun around a rich core of honeyed stone fruit. The reserve wines lend complexity and discrete power to the long, refreshing finish. A sophisticated NV cuvée throughout. Disgorged in 2023. Lot: L230329-3073

We began with a safe bet, the NV Brut Reserve from Charles Heidsieck. This is similar to my previous bottle with that pretty, slightly leesy nose, the palate fresh and well-balanced, quite malic towards the finish with a touch of orange rind on the aftertaste. Nothing spectacular – but it does the job.