Brut Millésimé (Gift Box), Charles Heidsieck, Champagne, France, 2008

Charles Heidsieck's millésime usually comprises around 11 crus. It has autumnal and warm notes of praline and lightly toasted hazelnuts on the nose. The palate is rich and generous, with a lively freshness on the long finish. Charles Heidsieck is one of the most admired Champagne houses thanks to the unrivalled and consistently high quality of its wines. Founded in 1851 by the man who would become known as ‘Champagne Charlie’, this family-owned house is the smallest of the Grandes Marques. Their size, and commitment to excellence, has been underpinned by a winemaking team that between them have been named 'Sparkling Winemaker of the Year' at the International Wine Challenge 16 times. After the first fermentation in stainless-steel vats, the wines were racked to separate the lees and then underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the natural acidity and improve texture. After blending the two varieties, the cuvée was bottled and yeast added for second fermentation. The bottles were placed in the cellars in spring 2009, and remained ageing on lees for ten years. After disgorgement and dosage of 8g/l, the wine was aged for a further six months before release. The 2008 vintage was well-balanced with a mild winter followed by some periods of rain at the beginning of spring. During flowering a bitterly cold period in the middle of June threatened the vines, however this fortunately had no impact on the quality of the fruit. Ideal weather during the harvest ensured the grapes were very healthy. Following a series of unusual years, the 2008 harvest returned to the norm of the Champagne region. This Millésimé 2008 was composed of ten Grand and Premier Crus (Oger, Vertus, Chouilly, Cuis, Verzy, Aÿ, Ludes, Ambonnay, Tauxières and Avenay) each meticulously selected by the Chef de Caves.

Grape Varieties: 60% Pinot Noir , 40% Chardonnay

Region: Champagne

The Brut Millésimé 2008 is a brilliant golden yellow in colour with a delicate effervescence. The nose is complex with aromas of candied citrus and dried fruits with notes of pecan and hazelnut. On the palate the wine has generous texture and a pronounced minerality. Flavours of caramel and citrus carry through to the long finish.

• Feature(s): Vegetarian, Sustainable, Vegan
• Winemaker: Thierry Roset
• Alcohol (ABV): 12 %