Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Brut Vintage 2006

92 points Wine Spectator - "A refined version with a rich, toasty base, this carries flavors of brioche, pureed blackberry, graphite, candied lemon zest and fresh ginger on a fine and creamy mousse, followed by a lasting, spiced finish. Drink now through 2026. "From a contrasted year comes an unexpectedly elegantly charming wine. A year that first of all was marked by highly contrasted weather: after a heat wave in July, August witnessed violent storms of rain and hail. A year that offered a contrasted expression of the grapes: the Pinots Noirs were exceptionally intense and impetuous while the Chardonnay was ready for a long maturation. A year that obliged the winemakers to adapt: reducing the proportion of Pinot Noir compared to past years, thus reaching parity between Pinot and Chardonnay to moderate the Pinot Noir’s intensity. A year that asked for patience: the 17 crus that were selected to build the vintage (9 Grands Crus, 7 Premiers Crus - 8 Pinots Noirs, 9 Chardonnays) patiently waited 6 years in the House’s cellars to reach the perfect balance, and express the wine’s elegance and charm.On the eyeA pale, crystal-clear yellow, to which the higher proportion of chardonnay brings glints of green. A light, airy effervescence. On the noseAromas of dried apricots, notes of little red and black berries (raspberry, blackberry) and a hint of spices. Intense and enticing. An ample and generous harmony.On the palateA particularly dense and structured wine, whose generous structure is plush with candied orange peel, highlighted with a touch of smoked tea and toasted almonds. An incredibly long finish and the freshness of the Chardonnays tame the Pinots Noirs’ vigor. Balanced and elegantly charming.