Charles Heidsieck

Charles Heidsieck is a prestigious producer based in Champagne. Its house style is structured and creamy, with a high proportion of reserve wine used in the Brut NV. Charles Heidsieck uses the three main Champagne grapes; Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, in the wines, and the grapes of which are now sourced from more than 200 growers throughout Champagne. The house began in 1851 when its eponymous founder – the original "Champagne Charlie" – went into business for himself. Rather than investing in vineyards, Heidsieck invested in underground chalk cellars based in the center of Reims. The cellars, which are still part of the house today, are 60 feet (18m) below ground and have a constant temperature and humidity – they have been used to age wines for nearly 150 years. Today, Champagne Charles Heidsieck is a premium producer of sparkling wines. The house produces both classic brut and rosé non-vintage wines, both of which are aged for three years, around 20 months longer than is legally required for non-vintage champagnes.