12% abv, Reims, imported by Folio Wine Partners, the Michael Mondavi Family, Napa, CA. (Laid in chalk cellars in 2011; disgorged in 2018). Cork closure: Diam composite. Biodynamic calendar: fruit day.

Known for up to 40% reserve wines spanning 10+ years with extended autolysis (lees aging), the wines of Champagne Charlie are no longer a well-kept secret as the poor man’s Krug. For this particular bottling, 60% of the wine was of the 2010 vintage with equal part Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, and 40% reserve wines of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This particular non-vintage bottling seems to have more cellar aging than typical for this house, so consider me lucky to have sourced a bottle with seven years of bottle age before discouragement.

The Heidsieck is Pale gold in color with rather chalky nose of pronounced intensity with aromas of slightly bruised fresh apple, baked apple, mango, cheese, toasted pistachios, ginger snap, and acacia honey. On the palate this wine is off-dry with high acid, medium alcohol, a full body, pronounced flavor intensity and a long finish with flavors of English walnut, marzipan, nectarine, Rainier cherry, lemon meringue, yogurt, gingerbread, and a touch of spearmint and eucalyptus honey. Drink now or through 2026, this wine is very very good: 9.4/10!