1995 Charles Heidsieck, Blanc des Millenaires Brut 1x750ml

Robert Parker 96

Drunk from a bottle that was disgorged in 2016, the 1995 Blanc des Millenaires continues to show very well, wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of waxy citrus rind, dried pear, walnut oil, warm bread and fresh pastry. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, enveloping and chalky, with a rich and muscular core, lively acids and a long, precise finish. Impeccably balanced, this is a cuvee I have drunk on many occasions and which used to be well-represented in my own cellar, but this is as good a bottle as I have ever encountered. In the plenitude of full-maturity, now is a great time to pop corks. [William Kelley, 08/04/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035

Vinous 94

(made from mostly grand cru chardonnay grown in Oger, Melsnil-sur-Oger, Cramant, Avize and some from premier cru Vertus; L138210-3002126): Vivid gold. Heady aromas of candied citrus fruits, flowers, truffle, gingerbread and iodine, with an intensely smoky overtone. Deep, pungent and palate-staining, with the orchard and pit fruit flavors reaching every corner of the palate and showing impressive power without any excess weight. Even more extroverted than last year’s release, finishing with excellent cling and lingering smokiness. [Josh Raynolds, 01/11/2011]