Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve, Reims, Champagne

Very impressive for a "regular" non-vintage Brut, not only in terms of aromatic complexity - candied citrus, dried peach and fresh mirabelle plus a hint of bread dough - also in terms of texture, the creamy, rich and crisp sides of the wine neatly interlocking. Long, structured finish. A cuvee that's half 2018 and half reserve wines, some of which are a couple of years old, but many of them are five- to 10-years-old, with several over 10-years-old. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com

The Charles Heidsieck NV Brut Réserve is elaborated with 150 different wines from most of 60 crus. This is a blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier with 50% of reserve wines. Disgorged in 2022 with a dosage of nine grams per liter, it has a delicate bouquet with aromas of orchard fruit, apricot, warm biscuits, praline, pastry and lemon hints. Medium to full-bodied, creamy and fleshy, the palate is charming with lively acids and a chalky finish. It’s approachable now but also evolving with grace

92+ points Yohan Castaing robertparker.com

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve is one of Champagne’s great non vintage wines, admired for its richness, depth, and signature house style. It reflects the meticulous blending philosophy that has defined Charles Heidsieck for generations, built on an unusually high proportion of long aged reserve wines and extended cellaring in the historic chalk crayères of Reims.

The blend brings together Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier from top crus across the region. Around forty percent reserve wine is included, some more than ten years old, which gives the cuvée its creamy texture and complex layers of flavour. After secondary fermentation, the wine rests for several years in the cool underground cellars, allowing it to develop its luxurious structure and characteristic complexity.

In the glass it shows a deep golden colour with a fine, persistent bead. The aroma is rich and expressive, offering baked apple, lemon zest, brioche, roasted nuts, and subtle spice, with a chalky undertone that speaks to long lees ageing. The palate is generous yet perfectly balanced, showing citrus, stone fruit, honeyed pastry, and almond carried by fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. It is both comforting and vibrant, a hallmark of the house.

It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, scallops, creamy seafood dishes, charcuterie, or aged cheeses. It is also perfect as a celebratory aperitif thanks to its depth and refinement. With its structure and reserve wine backbone, it will age gracefully for many years.