An amazing story in wine, Charles Heidsieck (1822–1893) was a 19th-century French founder of his namesake champagne house in 1851. He played a large role in popularizing champagne in the United States. Over time he earned the nickname "Champagne Charlie". He was imprisoned as a spy during the Civil War, and even nearly went bankrupt.
His story lives on with the wines today that are really well-made. Emilien Erard serves as Chef de Caves for Charles Heidseick, taking over for succeeding Elise Losfelt in July 2025. Erard has been with the House since 2018.
The new wines were fabulous. I really enjoyed the NV Charles Heidseick ‘Rose Reserve’ Champange (OB, 93) which is wonderfully earthy and has a good amount of reserve wines blended in. Learn more at https://charlesheidsieck.com/en and here are my reviews of the new Charles Heidseick wines.
NV Charles Heidseick ‘Rose Reserve’ Champagne- The outstanding NV ‘Rose Reserve’ is a marvelous juxtaposition between ripe red fruits and earthy nuances. Aged on the lees for roughly 3.5 years, reserve wines make up 35% of the wine, with an average age of 5 years. Salted walnut and wild mushroom tones combine with salmonberry and pomedrade seed flavors on the palate. A joy to drink now, enjoy over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93
NV Charles Heidseick ‘Brut Reserve’ Champagne- The NV ‘Brut Reserve’ shows candied ginger and white flowers on the nose with honeydew melon notes. The palate has nice nutty nuances with a fat mouthfeel and good viscosity. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 91
NV Charles Heidseick ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Champagne- The NV ‘Blanc de Blancs’ is all Chardonnay coming from mainly the Côte des Blancs. It has 25% reserve wines blended in with an average age of 5 years. Immediately gratifying, this comes off mineral-laden and round on the tongue, with sea salt dusted pastry crust alongside dense melon and lemon fruits. Medium-bodied with plenty of nerve, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93