Cuvée Rare 1998 in magnum is a true collector's item. It's a vibrant, complex champagne that's also powerful and generous.
Since 1976, Piper-Heidsieck has produced only 10 vintages of the Cuvée Rare: 1976, 1979, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1998 in magnum, 1999, 2002, 2006 and 2008. The 1998 vintage, available exclusively in magnum, is undoubtedly one of the finest.
It is a blend of 17 crus from the Côte des Blanc and Montagne de Reims regions. Rare 1998 is a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. 1998 was marked by a very wet winter and spring, while the summer was scorching, resulting in a vibrant, complex vintage.
Rare 1998 Piper-Hiedsieck has a sparkling color, studded with fine, majestic bubbles.
The nose reveals notes of sandalwood and cedar, followed by an expressive, gourmand bouquet of gingerbread, orange blossom and dried apricot. After a few minutes, the nose takes on yet another dimension, with notes of powdered cocoa and licorice, with a beautiful minerality in the background.
The palate is sublime. The attack is taut and fresh, but not aggressive, and the mouthfeel is superb, suave, full and satiny. The mid-palate reveals lovely notes of peony blossom, hawthorn and brown sugar. Then its taut, precise freshness with infinite length asserts aromas of gingerbread.
Stunning!
