In the glass, the 2005 rosé is an elegant, pearly pink with a delicate bubble. The nose is deeply perfumed with luxuriant notes of kirsch, ripe cherries, fleshy plums, pomegranates and cranberries. Pastry aromas follow, with notes of brioche and fresh butter that characterise the spirit of this vintage. On the palate, there are delicate flavours of candied grapefruit and earthier notes. This fullbodied and indulgent wine has a long-lasting, aromatic 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.
The 2005 harvest in Champagne was particularly successful due to a cold, dry winter, an early heat wave in June that aided flowering. A reasonable amount of rainfall in the summer and, finally, a return to high temperatures in early September, ideal for ripening the grapes. The first grapes were brought in on 9th September. The weather was ideal, cool, dry and sunny. Cool nights helped to boost the level of sugar in the grapes. Thanks to the heat and rain, grapes were plump, heavier than average and showed an exemplary level of sugar. In addition to these promising points, excellent acidity ensured perfect balance and very promising ageing potential for this vintage. First tastings revealed exceptional Chardonnays, and subtle and aromatic Pinots Noirs.
After the first fermentation, the wine was racked to separate the lees and then underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the natural acidity. 8% of the blend was vinifed as a red wine. After blending, the cuvée was bottled and selected yeast was added to begin the second fermentation. The bottles were placed in the cellar at a temperature of about 10°C to age for a minimum of eight years before release
'A rich, toasty overtone brings you into the glass of this satiny rosé, offering flavors of baked white cherry and raspberry fruit, saffron, brioche and citrus peel, all deftly meshed with vibrant acidity. Elegant. Disgorged 2017. Drink now through 2029.' 94 points, Wine Spectator 'Striking nose of candied orange, dipped in bitter chocolate and tobacco leaf. Powerful and mouth-filling, with impressive textural richness. Now at its best, the dry finish fully mature, but complex and spicy. The color comes from about 7% pinot noir red wine, partly from the little known Les Riceys in the far south of Champagne. Drink now.' 94 points, James Suckling
94 Points -Wine Spectator, 94 Points - James Suckling, 93 Points - Robert Parker, 93 Points - Decanter
