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The thrilling energy of this splendid season charges it with a vibrancy and definition that places this blend on a plateau elevated high above even the lofty heights that this cuvee has attained under the new Charles Heidsieck. In searching for any other entry non-vintage cuvee to which to compare it, I can fathom none short of the mesospheric heights of Krug itself. In sheer age (current Krug Grande Cuvee is only one year older) and depth of reserves, this Charles Heidsieck splendidly upholds its elevated position among Champagne's richer NVs... In sheer, breathtaking calibre for the price, this is the greatest Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve I can remember. It deserves to be the house champagne we all have chilled perpetually at the ready this year. Rating: 96/100.

Only made in the very best of vintages by winemaker Guillaume Roffiaen, the primary aromas are dominated by the signature style of the Cuvée Spéciale, with citrus fruit freshness and floral hints as its calling card. In the mouth there is immense freshness from the Chardonnay backbone, bringing apricot and delicate peach notes. The cris, fruity attack delivers a thirst-quenching sensation, with mineral notes stimulating the taste buds. The mid-palate is perfectly balanced, with the silky Meunier paving the way for a surprising aromatic finale of great depth and complexity, from the well-structured Pinot Noir.

Taittinger Brut Reserve contains a blend of 40% Chardonnay and 60% Pinot Meunier. A golden-yellow beauty with an expressive aroma of fruits, flowers and vanilla pod. The palate is delicate and equally fruity with hints of honey for a touch of sweetness.

The guiding principles of blending are the achievement of harmony and consistency. The White Foil blend is traditionally composed from around 80 still base wines, drawn from different vineyard sites (crus), grape varieties and vintage years. The blend contains approximately one third of each three grape varieties of Champagne. Pinot Noir contributes body, depth of character and life extending tannins, Pinot Meunier adds youthful freshness, vigour and plump fruit character while Chardonnay gibes lightness, elegance and firmness.

The Collection blend is dominated by Chardonnay which was of exceptional quality in the 2017 vintage. The perfectly ripe Chardonnay grapes lend the wine its aromas of ripe, sweet fruit complemented by subtle oaky notes. The palate is rich and ripe with a luxurious texture that coats the palate, the signature of an outstanding Chardonnay. The Pinot noir and Meunier grapes from the Vallée de la Marne complete the wines broad, luscious, smooth and juicy character. The finish is energetic and fresh.

Champagne Charles Orban is a another fantastic grower/producer Champagne to offer simply amazing value-for-money for authentic Champagne. From a hands-on producer who have been tending their vineyards for decades, Charles Orban Blanc de Blanc is made from 100% estate grown Chardonnay that has a discrete nose of butter and nuttiness rounded by a palate with hints of brioche. A complex, mouth-filling boutique Champagne perfect as an aperitif or alongside many heartier meals.