Though Piper Heidsieck might be a relatively well known brand in the world of Champagne, it’s prestige cuvée called ‘Rare’ is somewhat lesser known and as per its namesake, rare! Founded back in 1785 – Florens Louis Heidsieck launched the now globally famous house in Reims.
Rare Champagne boasts a noble origin when Queen Marie Antoinette tasted the House’s first cuvée. With limited production and unapologetically exclusive, Rare Champagne stands as a regal rejection of convention. Since 1976, only 14 vintages have been released: 1976, 1979, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2013, and Rare Rosé Millésime 2007, 2008, 2012, and 2014.
96 Points Decanter
Rare Champagne boasts an illustrious past, with its first vintage having been presented to Marie Antoinette in 1785. The wine is produced in very limited quantities and is restricted to exceptional years, with only 11 vintages being declared over the past four decades of production. 70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir from selected grand cru vineyards. Simon Field MW: Gentle bead, lovely evolved notes of hazelnut, even a hint of praline, enrobed and ennobled by firm acidity and a persuasive finish. Alan Bednarski: Great, pure wine with still-fresh zesty flavours, delicate palate and sweet yeast notes, with a long flavourful finish of ripe melon. Tim Hall: A challenging, pressing start, wanting to overwhelm with shimmering and sharp attack, but shows intensity on the palate to match. Lovely lemon-apple notes and tempered texture. Drink 2021 – 2028.
95 Points James Suckling
Rich and complex nose of baked apricot, dried pineapple, praline, walnut, spiced pear and fig. Some nutmeg and smoky notes, too. It’s supple and creamy, with a broad array of ripe tropical and spiced fruit and salted-caramel undertones. Soft bubbles. Dry feel. 70% chardonnay and 30% pinot noir, mainly from the Montagne de Reims. 11 years on the lees, disgorged end of 2020. 10g/l dosage. Delicious now.