Of the three Champagne houses named Heidsieck - all originating from families once related - Charles is the smallest and arguably, the best. Established in 1851 by the nephew of Piper-Heidsieck's owner, Charles Heidsieck himself was the original 'Champagne Charlie'. In 2011 both Charles Heidsieck and Piper-Heidsieck were bought by EPI Group headed by Christopher Descours, he has provided significant finance for both Houses allowing them to grow their vineyard holdings, grape purchasing and production. Today, production occurs alongside sister company Piper-Heidsieck in an ultra-modern functional wine-making facility on the southern outskirts of Reims. The Charles Heidsieck Cellars are a Unesco World Heritage site and comprise more than eight kilometres of chalk tunnels interlinking forty seven subterranean cathedrals called Crayères, reaching 30 metres high and believed to have been dug out in the 3rd century.

After many years ageing in the unique and ancient Crayères acquired by its founder Charles Heidsieck, Brut Millésime reveals itself as a champagne poised between elegance and complexity, with a smooth texture and great length on the palate. Extended ageing on the lees has unlocked the full potential of their aromas. Each vintage has its own signature, its own generous tone.

In 1963, they launched the Cuvée Royale, the first vintage (1961) of which would be marketed for the first time in 1966. Seven great vintages would be produced in the 1970s, including the Royal Wedding Cuvée, served in 1981 at the wedding ceremony of Prince Charles and Lady Diana in a vintage 1973. This trade name was registered in 1977, the year of the Jubilee for the 25th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s reign. The Cuvée Royale 1981 was the last to be marketed.

Weather: 1981 is a stunning and extremely rare vintage. Drastic climatic variations over the winter as well as to springtime frosts destroyed 25% of the anticipated harvest. Nevertheless, upon tasting the grapes, particularly the Chardonnay in the white Grand crus, they were found to be of excellent quality. The Pinots Noirs married acidity and generosity. In all, they indicated intensely aromatic wines with a very promising cellaring potential.

This champagne is part of Charles Heidsieck Collection Crayeres, a second late release of vintages direct from their cellars in Reims in December 2017. The releases are very limited quantities and a perfect chance to buy and enjoy champagne with age in its very best condition; just 90 bottles have been released. We have 12 bottles available.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: 100% Grand & Premier Cru
Grape Varieties: 52% Pinot Noir, 48% Chardonnay
Drink: Now to 2030+

Tasting Note: A dark golden colour with hints of green. Initial aromas are dominated by cooked apricots and candied oranges, with slightly more nutty notes developing after a little while in the glass. Indulgent caramel flavours fill the mid-palate and combine with toasty notes and balanced acidity that last right through to the finish.