Long considered the prestige vintage of Piper-Heidsieck, Rare broke away from the Reims house in 2018 to become a brand in its own right and position itself at the top of the Champagne basket (from 220 to 450 euros per bottle). Just as with Piper-Heisdieck, the charismatic cellar chef Régis Camus handed over the reins to Émilien Boutillat to perpetuate his generously grilled, ample, slightly demonstrative style. Vintage white and rosé champagnes come from the duo of chardonnay (around 70%) and pinot noir from eleven crus, mainly from the Montagne de Reims, vinified in stainless steel vats then matured for more than ten years on slats. Far from the contemporary signatures of low dosage and very tense champagnes, Rare assumes an elegant and comfortable balance with a dosage (9-10 g/l) to accompany the wine over time.
Our opinion
Behind a fine bubble, always impeccable, we discover a generous signature, full of charm which is suitable for vintages of good concentration (2012, 2002). The chiseled and cold profile of 2013 seemed to us to mask the identity of this beautiful classic vintage at this stage. The dosage integrates perfectly with time, as evidenced by the very beautiful 2002.
Three emblematic vintages
92/100
Brut 2013
An elegant toasted reduction enlivens a fresh, even cold, nose. We find the chiseled and tense balance of the vintage, enveloped by a comfortable dosage, a little too much. The finish emphasizes a sharp bitterness. It would be good to let it age for around ten years. Prix : 220 €
94/100
Brut rosé 2014
This 2014 rosé does not skimp on the notes of cherry, plum and pomelo. A well-defined aromatic palette for this beautiful chalky and fresh vintage. A very nice balance, elegant, tasty, causes dynamic salivation. Prix : 450 €
94/100
Brut 2002
Notes of crème brûlée on the nose. This great Champagne vintage evolves serenely. It expresses the fullness of the year, while retaining a breathless youthfulness. A champagne to enjoy in autumn or winter. Prix : 450 €
Rare Champagne in detail
- Owner : EPI group (Descours family)
- Chef de cave: Émilien Boutillat, since 2021
- Number of hectares of own vines: 80 (shared with Charles Heidsieck and Piper-Heidsieck)
- Number of hectares purchased for grapes: 400 (shared with Charles Heidsieck and Piper-Heidsieck)
- Grape varieties: chardonnay (70 %), pinot noir (30 %)
- Number of bottles sold per year on average: the house does not communicate
Belgium
