With a balanced portion of all three grape varieties and top growths from throughout the region of Champagne, Charles Heidsieck’s winemaker often refers to Brut Reserve as “the map of Champagne.” Brut Reserve’s aging period is longer than most any other non-vintage Champagne producer.

Tasting notes

Expressive, yeasty aromas of apple, warm biscuits, toasted nuts, truffle and minerals. A rich, nutty midweight with enticing coffee, mushrooms and truffle notes. Smooth and harmonious, with a brisk framing acidity. Nicely balanced Champagne with good intensity and length.

Rating

Wine Enthusiast 94 points A big boywith almost fleshy fruit. The flavors push into exotic, tropical richness yet retain spicy citrus-rind highlights. There is nothing clumsy, despite the ripeness; the finish seems to extend almost infinitely and keeps zinging you with surprises—marshmallow, marzipan, cookie dough, etc. An added bonus: the back label clearly indicates when it was bottled and cellared (2001). Score: 94. —Paul Gregutt, December 01, 2006.  Wine Spectator 92 points Plenty of graphite and honey flavors mark this well-structured, effusive Champagne. Lemon, dough and vanilla accents are also present. Finishes with a tactile sensation around the gums. Drink now through 2010. Score: 92. —Bruce Sanderson, November 30, 2006.

Wine maker notes

Produced from 105 different Champagne crus. Contains 50% reserve wine from up to 8 different years.

Technical notes

COMPOSITION: 35% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay

Food pairing

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve is a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of foods, especially regional French cuisine.