Piper-Heidsieck Extra Brut Champagne Essentiel NV

94 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(tasted in 2023 in France; 44% pinot noir, 34% meunier, 22% chardonnay; 2018 base vintage; 27% reserves; full malolactic fermentation; disgorged February 2023 for release after June 2023; 4g/L dosage; DIAM). In recently disgorged, pre-release guise there is a compelling contrast here between the freshness and cut of grapefruit and lemon and the fruity richness of peach, fig and strawberry fruit that sets apart the rich 2018 season. Lees age and reserves have brought subtle almond and brioche nuances becoming vanilla cream, and a seamless integration, while still maintaining a bright, pale straw hue. Phenolics are well played to heighten tension without austerity, and low dosage accentuates saline chalk minerality. An impressive Essentiel which will come into its own with another six months on cork. (Edition VII; 2024)"

92-94 points Essi Avellan, MW: "(base 2018; 44% Pinot Noir, 34% Pinot Meunier, 22% Chardonnay). This is chef de cave Emilien Boutillat’s first Cuvée Essentiel creation, and a fine one it is from this lush vintage, replenished by 27% reserve wines. Despite all the fruity charm, the ripe Pinot nose comes with elegance. A touch of floral complexity meet toasty tones. On the palate it is energetic zingy, with the low 4g/l dosage enhancing the fresh appeal. Lovely lemony finish of salinity and fruity persistence. (Jun 2023)"

93 points Tom Hewson (TimAtkin.com): "Essentiel is the same wine as the Brut, but with extra ageing on lees and a lower dosage (future editions, however, will be bespoke blends). So, 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier and 20% Chardonnay, based on 2014 in this case. Over the Brut you notice an uplift in ground nut and praline richness, the fruit turning candied and a little spice emerging. It's still that classic sparky, zesty Piper style at heart, just with a touch of umami length and interest. Highly recommendable (and the magnums are an excellent find). (2022)"

93 points James Suckling: "Toast and spice elements here, underneath dried pineapple, guava and grilled hazelnuts. Rich and delicious, with soft bubbles and savory salted-lemon undertones. Dry and lengthy finish. 50% pinot noir, 30% pinot meunier and 20% chardonnay, with 20% reserve wines. 4.8g/L dosage. Bottled 2016 and disgorged May 2020. Drink now. (7/22/22)"

93 points Wine Enthusiast: "This bone-dry Champagne has been released with some bottle aging. That has softened the wine's texture and created an attractive toasty edge to the ripe apple and pear flavors. The wine is ready to drink. Alcohol 12%. (Dec 2022)"

92 points Audrey Frick (JebDunnuck.com): "The NV Champagne Essentiel Extra Brut offers a more gastronomic side to the range, with a slightly lower dosage and a more linear and mineral approach. This release was from the 2012 vintage with 18% reserve wine. It was aged for six years on the lees and has 5 grams per liter of dosage, with a high percentage of fruit coming from the Montagne de Reims. It reveals notes of fig, coffee, and pear, which are emblematic of the house style, and the palate is focused, with a light saline touch. Drink 2023-2033. Disgorged March 2017. Drink: 2023-2033. (11/7/22)"

92 points Bettane & Desseauve Guide (2025).