2018 Charles Heidsieck Brut Millesime
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Tasting notes
Émilien Erard’s first vintage working at Heidsieck, the 2018 Champagne Millesime Brut has a shimmering yellow hue, while the nose reveals notes of ripe peaches, with a fleshy stone fruit character that is characteristic of the house. Disgorged in 2024, this 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay blend, with no oak, was aged entirely in stainless steel tanks. They were aiming to preserve the freshness of this vintage to enhance its aging potential. The mousse is frothy and floral, expressive and open in this vintage. Drink 2026-2050. This year, Émilien Erard has been appointed as Cellar Master of Charles Heidsieck. The shift follows Elise Losfelt’s departure to return to her family estate in the Languedoc, Château de l’Engarran. Mr. Erard has been working at the estate since 2018, alongside both Elise Losfelt and, previously, Cyril Brun. Mrs. Losfelt’s tenure oversaw the 2023 and 2024 vintages at the house. The wines for this report were tasted at the estate in Reims with CEO Stephen Leroux and Émilien Erard.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
In the context of so extreme a vintage, Charles Heidsieck’s 2018 Brut Millésimé is a wine of considerable success. Disgorged in May 2024 with a dosage of eight grams per liter, it soars from the glass with aromas of pomelo, pear and lemon confit, mingling with brioche and jasmine, framed by a deft touch of smoky reduction. On the palate, it is full-bodied and enveloping, with a fleshy and charming fruit core, enlivened by ripe but vibrant acidity and a pillowy mousse, concluding with a toasty, saline-tinged finish. Flamboyant and immediately seductive, it promises a broad window of enjoyment. The blend consists of 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay.
Very polished. Medium-bodied with lovely, sophisticated yet subtle flavors of dried apricots, grapefruit and peaches. Finely structured with creamy bubbles that give tension and focus. Touch of salt. Long and satisfying. A blend of 55% pinot noir and 45% chardonnay. Dosage 8 g/L. Drink now.
The 2018 Brut Millésime is an attractive, open-knit offering. Apricot, yellow flowers, baked apple tart and light tropical overtones all grace this mid-weight, forward Champagne from Charles Heidsieck. All the elements are very well put together, adding to the wine's considerable charm. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Disgorged: 2024.
About the producer
Founded by the original “Champagne Charlie”, Champagne Charles Heidsieck is one of the region’s smaller Houses but also one of its most quality-focused. From its Brut Réserve to its prestige cuvée, Blanc des Millénaires, the wines are rich, vinous and complex.