CharlesHeidsieckLaCollectionCrayeres1989

Of the three Champagne houses named Heidsieck â€?all originating from families once related â€?Charles is the smallest and arguably, the best. Established in 1851 by the nephew of Piper-Heidsieck’s owner, Charles Heidsieck himself was the original ‘Champagne Charlieâ€?In 2011 both Charles Heidsieck and Piper-Heidsieck were bought by EPI Group headed by Christopher Descours, he has provided significant finance for both Houses allowing them to grow their vineyard holdings, grape purchasing and production.Today, production occurs alongside sister company Piper-Heidsieck in an ultra-modern functional wine-making facility on the southern outskirts of Reims. The Charles Heidsieck Cellars are a Unesco World Heritage site and comprise more than eight kilometres of chalk tunnels interlinking forty seven subterranean cathedrals called Crayères, reaching 30 metres high and believed to have been dug out in the 3rd century.rrAfter many years ageing in the unique and ancient Crayères acquired by its founder Charles Heidsieck, Brut Millésime reveals itself as a champagne poised between elegance and complexity, with a smooth texture and great length on the palate. Extended ageing on the lees has unlocked the full potential of their aromas. Each vintage has its own signature, its own generous tone.rrWeather: The weather conditions in 1989 were good; mild weather throughout much of spring with spells of frost damaging some vineyards. However, during the beginning of the summer months the weather improved and sunny days fostered good growing conditions. The harvest began early in the first and second week of September and the harvest was a good size. Wines from 1989 generally have incredible ageing potential.rrThis champagne is part of Charles Heidsieck Collection Crayeres, a second late release of vintages direct from their cellars in Reims in December 2017. The releases are very limited quantities and a perfect chance to buy and enjoy champagne with age in its very best condition.rrTechnical Information:rVineyards: 100% Grand & Premier Cru rGrape Varieties: 55% Pinot Noir, 45% ChardonnayrDisgorged: 1998rBottled in: 1990rProduction: 360 BottlesrDrink: Now to 2035+