Heidsieck/Charles Brut Champagne 2012

97 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(tasted in 2021 in France; 60% pinot noir, 40% chardonnay as always; grand and premier crus from the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs; principally Aÿ, Oger, Vertus, Chouilly, Ludes and Cuis for chardonnay and Ambonnay, Tauxières and Avenay-val-d'Or for pinot noir; 8g/L dosage; disgorged in 2019; DIAM). 2012 represents another sensational vintage for Charles, confidently uniting the spectacular freshness and vibrancy of 2012 with the succulence and ethereal, spicy depth of that distinguish this lauded house. It lingers with effortless line and length, at once creamy and tense; the definition of the modern Charles. A stunning vintage with a long future before it. (Edition VII; 2024)"

96 points Bettane & Desseauve Guide (2022).

94-96 points Essi Avellan, MW: "'A dangerously drinkable wine' according to chef de cave Cyril Brun, and I wouldn't contest that. I adore it for its inviting approachability, pure fruitiness, vibrancy and impeccable balance. The colour is intense with golden tones. The nose is not short of nuances: stunning smoky toastiness and rich biscuit notes are complemented by generosity of fresh and dried fruits ranging from apricots to tropical fruits and zesty lemony layers. It sits between reductive and oxidative styles, leaning safely towards the former. On the palate, the marriage of Charles’ hallmark velvety texture, the invigorating tension and the tiniest bubbles is disarming. Highly creamy and generous but ending on a fresh note of stylish bitterness at the back palate, probably partly due to the drier than usual style, dosed perfectly at 8g/l. A classic blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay with Grand & Premier Cru sourcing from the Montagne de Reims and Côte de Blancs. The key villages are Aÿ, Oger, Vertus, Chouilly, Ludes and Cuis for Chardonnay and Ambonnay, Tauxieres and Avenay for Pinot Noir. (Dec 2021)"

95 points Tom Hewson (TimAtkin.com): "60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay, The 2012 vintage has it all. Intensity of dried stone fruit, fireworks of smoky charred yuzu/confit citrus, richness of coffee cream and papaya. Immense succulence and perfectly-pitched intensity, carried on a wave of freshness and mineral energy. Like many 2012s this is irresistible right now, but bound to improve, even if it is not the most tense or restrained style. (Dec 2022)"

95 points James Suckling: "Very lemony (blossoms, zest and candied peel), with some red-berry and fresh tobacco-leaf notes. Impressive richness and concentration, the creaminess from lees beautifully matched by the fine mousse and mineral freshness. The latter also powers the structured and saline finish that makes a serious statement. A blend of 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay, disgorged in 2020. Drink or hold. (1/5/22)"

94 points William Kelley (Wine Advocate): "Disgorged in 2019 with eight grams per liter dosage, the 2012 Brut Millésimé offers up aromas of crisp orchard fruit, white flowers and clear honey, complemented by hints of toasted bread, citrus zest and linden. Medium to full-bodied, elegantly fleshy and nicely concentrated, with lively acids and a pinpoint mousse, it's more generous and demonstrative than the 2008, but it will nonetheless reward a bit of bottle age. Drink: 2021-2038. (Mar 2021)"

94 points Peter Moser (Falstaff) (1/1/21).

93 points/'Le Coup de Coeur,' La Revue du Vin de France: "Served by the direction of the vintage, the 2012 is the tautest of the range, with a very fine definition and a tension that balances it. (2021)"

93 points Yohan Castaing (Decanter): "The Brut 2012 from Charles Heidsieck is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. The wine expresses aromas of apricot, crisp yellow orchard fruit including lemon but also spring flowers. On the palate, the texture is medium-bodied and very precise, crystalline and long with an expansive finish and some racy, noble bitterness. This is a gourmand style of Champagne that will gain in complexity with 2-3 years of ageing. Drinking Window: 2020-2025. (Jun 2020)"