Charles Heidsieck 2004 Blanc des Millenaires

It is a big disappointment that there will be no 2008 Blanc des Millenaires which could have reestablished the leading reputation after the slightly disappointing 2007. Our reaction was to find the great 2004 Blanc des Millenaires again. It is in a great drinking window now. 

Vineyards and Varietals

Charles Heidsieck introduced their new prestige champagne Blanc des Millenaires in 1993 with the 1983 vintage and since then this blanc de blancs has been the top of their range. After the 1983 only the vintages 1985, 1990, 1995 and recently 2004 have been declared which is surprising considering the outstanding quality of the 1988 vintage. Additionally, only the best grapes from the grand cru villages Cramant, Avize and Le Mesnil are vinified to complete the blend of Blanc des Millenaires. In some years grapes from Vertus are used for a small part of the base wines.

Vinification, elevage and bottling

Charles Heidsieck never uses wooden barrels and thus the Blanc des Millenaires 2004 was vinified in stainless steel tanks. Most of the base wines undergo malolactic fermentation. After blending they are bottle fermented and rested on lees for 13 years and disgorged as brut.

The Vintage

After  2002 the 2004s appeared more approachable with less prominent acidity but they are impeccably balanced and today 15 years later they are showing very well with some potential for improvement for the best cuvees.

Tasting Note

The Blanc des Millenaires 2004 smells of ripe citrus fruits, chalk, fresh brioche androasted almonds. On the palate it combines the opulence of a good white burgundy with the mineral freshness of the great terroirs of the Cote des Blancs with aromas of  lime, apple  almond and chalky freshness. The acidity is perfectly balanced with the discreet dosage and gives extra length.