Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Millésimé 2012
There will be those that compare the Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Millésimé 2012 vintage to spectacular years like 1990 or 1996, and yet the success of the resulting wines might be considered something of a miracle given the challenges of the year. Nature had them fearing the worst when it unleashed a range of climate catastrophes on their vineyards. Spring brought violent attacks of mildew, torrential rains, hailstorms, cold snaps during flowering, followed by heat and water stress that drove yields down by 30%. But a beautiful, sunny summer enabled slow maturing and good concentration in the grapes, resulting in a late harvest. Grapes proved to be of excellent quality: rich in sugar and with good acidity. Golden in appearance. Initially, the nose shows subtle toasted and smoked notes with a touch of liquorice and earthy tones. When swirled in the glass, fruity notes of apricot, blackthorn, quince, blueberry and fresh almonds add an extra dimension to the wine. The palate is mineral and taut with excellent freshness, with notes of quince, vanilla and vineyard peaches on the mid-palate, followed by a crisp finish. A lovely vintage which will continue to develop great complexity and generosity over time.
