The Charles Heidsieck House has exceptionally opened its wine cellar to offer a few bottles of the exceptional 1981 vintage. A total of 354 bottles and 441 magnums are available for tasting worldwide.
In 1981, severe frosts in April and a long, sunny summer followed a mild, wet winter. The extremely short harvest took place during a warm, bright October, producing grapes with a beautiful balance between ripeness and freshness.
This blend is composed of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, to which time has brought a superb patina. The wine was disgorged in 1987.
This prestigious cuvée has a deep golden color with slight copper highlights and a lively effervescence with very fine bubbles.
The first nose reveals notes of toast and mocha, followed by the salinity of Champagne. After a few minutes of aeration, the bouquet reveals notes of candied citrus fruits such as mandarin, grapefruit and ginger, followed by dried figs, which give the wine a youthful character. On the finish, tertiary notes appear with aromas of truffle, undergrowth and musk, promising a delicious palate.
The palate of this 1981 vintage is marked by exceptional freshness for a wine of this age. The wine unfolds fully on the palate, with a silky texture accompanied by mature notes of mocha and toasted bread. The balance between freshness and maturity makes this champagne an absolute benchmark.
