1. Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve
Gaining the ultimate accolade of ‘Master’ in this year’s tasting, this is the best Brut NV on the market today. I have tasted it blind on many occasions, as well as enjoyed it in a social setting, and it always delivers.
Why is it so good? It has a toasty aromatic appeal, along with a lovely citrus peel brightness on the finish, while, at its core, is a rich and honeyed generosity.
Although it is considered trendy to declare a love of very dry Champagnes, Charles Heidsieck has a relatively high dosage of around 11g/l – 12g/l being the cut-off for Brut Champagne and 9g/l the norm today.
This sugar level, when combined with the breadth of reserve wines used in the Charles Hiedseick Brut NV, gives the fizz a lovely depth of flavour and texture – after all, although Champagne should be refreshing, it should also be indulgent. This Champagne house understands that, and manages the balance brilliantly.
(I would also highly recommend the Rosé Réserve from Charles Heidsieck, which, like the Brut Réserve, is a benchmark for its category).
Approximate retail price for Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve: £42