2013 - Charles Heidsieck, Brut Millesime

The 2013 Brut Millésime, a blend of 57% Pinot Noir and 43% Chardonnay from Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs, spent nine years on lees. House-typical smokiness seductively wraps around ripe Mirabelle plum and woodland lichen. The palate surprises with its sprightly, youthful energy, showcasing ripe yellow plum and citrus nuances. Lovely now, it offers real mileage despite lacking tons of concentration, compensating with immense perfume and length. Dosage is 9 grams per liter. (Lot L240028-3206) - Anne Krebiehl MW

The Brut Millésme 2013 is a 57% Pinot Noir and 43% Chardonnay blend from the cooler, slow maturation 2013 vintage and finished with a nine gram per liter dosage. Sourced from ten Grand and Premier Cru villages, of which Le Mesnil and Ay are 15% each to account for 30% of the final blend, the nose reveals subtle brioche, crème brulée and a faint whiff of butterscotch along with undertones of ripe stone fruit. The palate has an incisive and lively acid that lifts the plush mid-palate of ripe stone fruit and citrus to a long and very precise finish that is both elegant and fresh.