2012 Rare Millésime Brut, Champagne, France

OVERVIEW

Rare Champagne 2012 is a remarkable vintage that exemplifies elegance, precision, and the unique expression of its exceptional year. Crafted by Cellar Master Régis Camus, it is composed predominantly of Chardonnay (70%) with Pinot Noir (30%) from selected Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs.

The 2012 growing season was challenging, marked by frost, hail, and drought, yet the result was fruit of extraordinary concentration and balance. Upon tasting, Rare 2012 reveals bright notes of white flowers, citrus, and tropical fruits, layered with hints of hazelnut and minerality. Its fine, persistent bubbles and silky texture lead to a long, complex finish. This cuvée is both powerful and refined, destined to age gracefully for decades. Rare Champagne 2012 stands as a testament to resilience and artistry, often hailed as one of the most distinctive vintages of the 21st century.

CRITIC REVIEWS

A graceful Champagne that waltzes across the palate, with a fine, plush mousse carrying a lovely range of ripe black cherry, pureed raspberry, candied ginger, Mandarin orange peel, grilled nut and pastry flavors enlivened by a vibrant spine of lemony acidity. To a certain extent, the precision and elegance belies the focus and breadth on display, so sip this slowly and enjoy as it opens in the glass and expands on the palate, echoing on the finish. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Drink now through 2040. 96 Points. Wine Spectator

Complex notes of buttered toast, orange rind, licorice, fig and brioche on the nose, followed by honey and salted caramel on the palate. It’s layered, powerful and rich, yet so fresh and lively, with very fine bubbles that are well integrated. Long and intense. 70% chardonnay and 30% pinot noir. At least 10 years on the lees. 8g/L dosage. 96 Points. Decanter

FOOD PAIRING INSPIRATION

This is such a fine Champagne we're not really sure we'd use it as an accompaniment to any meal. It's a celebration wine for Christmas or a special birthday or anniversary, however, it can deliciously support scallops or any white fish dish.

VINTAGE AND WINEMAKING

Considered the vintage of the century so far, 2008 was fairly mild but wet throughout winter and a rather damp and overcast spring followed. However, the summer improved markedly and the warm weather continued right though until harvest resulting in the most perfectly ripe grapes seen in the region in living memory.

Made with 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, this special Champagne is aged for 10 years on the lees and was disgorged in November 219.

PRODUCER NOTES

Since the 1960's Piper Heidsieck have been bottling Champagnes from extraordinary vintages but it was only in September 2018 and with this vintage that the name was changed to Rare. Previous Piper-Heidsieck Cellar Master Régis Camus has subsequently assumed the new role of Cellar Master for Rare Champagne.

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SERVICE AND STORAGE TIPS

We recommend this Champagne be stored and served between 8-10C. It does not require decanting. 

DELIVERY INFORMATION

Delivery is free when you spend over £150. For orders under this amount then a £9.99 delivery charge will be applied.

We use a tracked DPD delivery service who provide text and email tracking updates.

Every bottle sold by CoolerSomm is subject to our quality guarantee. If a wine is corked or faulty, we will replace it.

2012 Rare Millésime, Champagne, France