Champagne Henriot Cuvee Hemera 2006

Champagne Henriot Cuvee Hemera

WHY WE LOVE IT

  • A definite jewel in the Henriot portfolio, its name is a tribute to the Greek Goddess of day and light, HEMERA.
  • The fruit of a unique vintage, together with a blend of six iconic Grands Crus Champagnes, this Champagne – more than any other – epitomizes Henriot’s luminous style.
  • HEMERA Champagne is only made in exceptional years from an exclusive blend of Grands Crus chardonnay and pinot noir in equal measure, sourced from Henriot’s villages of choice in Champagne:
  • Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs, from Chouilly, Avize and Mesnil-sur-Oger.
  • Pinot Noir from the north of the Montagne de Reims, from Mailly Champagne, Verzy and Verzenay.

Varietal Composition: 50% Chardonnay 50% Pinot Noir

Elaboration: 100% of the grapes hail from Grand Cru vineyards. The wines is aged for 12 years on the lees with a low dosage of 5g/l

Tasting Notes: Yellow and gold-tinged in appearance. A constant stream of bubbles forms a lovely string of gossamer bubbles. Full-flavored fruitiness, offering notes of apricot, stewed citrus fruits, leads on the bouquet. Delicate roasted notes are peppered with a toasty and acacia honey-like quality. On the palate, pinot noir picks up the mantel, offering exquisite velvety structure, and masterful, delicate intensity. Delicate fruit flavors come to the fore, with notes of fresh and slightly candied citrus fruit. The aromatic intensity continues on the palate with subtle, honeyed, and delicately toasted notes, which bring rare value and presence to this Champagne. The resolutely low dosage plays its part in retaining and enhancing the natural beauty of its primary ingredients.

PRESS

2005 – 90 Wine & Spirits | 90 Vinous | 91 Wine Advocate | 93 Wine Spectator | 96 Wine Enthusiast (Cellar Selection) | 97 Decanter

2006 – 94 Wine Spectator | 97 Wine Enthusiast

2008 – 92+ Wine Advocate | 95 Wine Spectator

PRODUCER BACKGROUND

Founded in Reims in 1808, Champagne Henriot celebrated its 200th birthday in 2008; joining the very exclusive circle of independent 200-year-old family owned and managed champagne houses. Over the years Champagne Henriot has cultivated a unique style of its own, guided only by the pursuit of the rich, pure expression of Chardonnay. Strict grape requirements enable Henriot to highlight the minerality and precision of their vineyards, while the use of malolactic fermentation, a high percentage of reserve wines in their cuvées and extended lees aging result in wines of great expression, elegance, and depth. “Time is our ally and patience our secret” says Joseph Henriot. “They are the fundamental elements to our success.”

PRINT REVIEW SHELF TALKER (94 – WINE SPECTATOR)