Charles Heidsieck : Blanc des Millénaires Collection Crayères 1985

No Specific Tasting Note

Fabulous for its full, ripe flavors, rich texture and lingering finish. Has intriguing toasty, figgy aromas, powerful fruit flavors and a posh texture that keeps everything velvety. Drink now through 2005. 2,500 cases made.

A Champagne very typical of this small, concentrated vintage, the volume depleted by spring frost. Now at full maturity, it has a finely evolved, honeyed nose with a nutty note of pistachio. Buttered toast and a hint of lemon in the mouth head towards an end flavour akin to oloroso sherry and Asian spices. Ideal with foie gras and even roast grouse. Nearing its peak. Disgorged in 1994.

The nose of the 1985 is intense and very expressive, with chestnut notes, then very toasty. The palate is dense, with a beautiful, broad and generous texture, plenty of concentration and persistence, with a hint of mirabelle plum on the finish. Like the 1990, it develops Pinot Noir aromas without taking on the fleshiness or heaviness, even though it is 100% Chardonnay. Superb personality. A benchmark Champagne.