Enter our competition and win a bottle of something rather special, just in time for Christmas
Charles Heidsieck began making his eponymous champagne in 1851. Recognising the potential of new markets he was one of the first champagne producers to make the voyage to America in 1852. It was here that he earned the nickname ‘champagne charlie’. The House and its wines soon scooped awards, bagging medals during the Universal Exhibition of 1859 in Paris. To this day it remains the most awarded champagne in history.
Royal approval
Emperor Napoleon III himself enjoyed drinking Charles Heidsieck champagne, showing a preference for the "high style, very dry" which had traditionally been made for the British market. After Charles Heidsieck's voyage to Russia in 1864, the Tsar's entourage particularly appreciated his champagne and labels soon carried a caption "specially chosen for Russia" written in Cyrillic. Charles Heidsieck was also an official supplier to the courts of H.M. the King of Sweden and his R.H. the Grand Duke of Sax-Weimar.
Today
Current head winemaker Régis Camus joined Charles Heidsieck in 1994, rising to his current role in 2002. Every year, he supervises the blending of the House's wines. His mission is to perpetuate the Charles Heidsieck style, reflecting the richness of the Champagne terroir. The maturation of the Brut Réserve in the chalk cellars is prolonged to last a minimum of three years, which is twice as long as the minimum period set by the Appellation. This gives Charles Heidsieck wines a complex profile, elegant freshness and generous texture.
So you’d like to win a bottle?
Our friends at Charles Heidsieck have very kindly given us two bottles of the Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve. This is a great example of the renowned Charles Heidsieck style that is the perfect accompaniment to simple but savoury food.
To enter the competition simply search our recipe database (you need to register first) and choose a dish you think would compliment a chilled glass of Charles Heidsieck brut.
Usual Lovefood terms and conditions apply, and the Editor’s decision is final.
Answers in the comment field below please.
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