Rare Champagne 2013: “stunningly refined”

Today sees the release of the new vintage of Rare Champagne, the 2013. This is only the 13th vintage of this wine to be made and it has been called “stunningly refined” by Champagne expert Essi Avellan MW.

We are also pleased to offer limited remaining stocks of 2008 Rare. From a superlative, highly sought after vintage, the 2008 looks excellent value in the context of the new release. Jancis Robinson compares the 2008 to Dom Perignon and calls it “an exciting, luxurious champagne”.

Rare Champagne started life as the prestige cuvee at Piper Heidsieck, before becoming its own entity in 2019. The blend for the wine is always Chardonnay dominant, and both vintages on offer consist of 70% Chardonnay with 30% Pinot Noir. The grapes come from eleven different villages and are fermented in stainless steel. After malolactic fermentation, the wine sees extended lees ageing (ten years in the case of the 2008, eight years for the 2013). The resulting wines are notable for their complexity and finesse.

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