MASON NG

Head Sommelier of Park90 and Singapore’s Youngest Certified Sommelier by The Court of Master Sommeliers

Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires 1995:

In the past, Charles Heidsieck used to be one of the greatest and most established champagne houses. Many would agree that in 1985, when Rémy Cointreau bought the house, it lost its former glory days, as quantity was prioritised over quality. In 2011, the EPI Group took over ownership and really made a huge difference by reviving the house’s potential. In terms of rarity, Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Millénaires is only produced in five vintages: 1983, 1985, 1990, 1995 and, more recently, 2004. (In comparison, Dom Pérignon has produced 17 vintages since 1983.) If you were to compare with all the Grandes Marques in the market, this is the underdog—or the prodigal son, to be more exact. The 1995 vintage, in particular, through personal preference and experience, could easily triumph over most prestige champagnes in the market. This is due to its freshness—one that defies all logic and seems to be able to stop time within the bottle. The fresh acidity, followed by a lean yet intense mouthfeel, is an absolutely sensational experience, given a champagne of 23 years.