Henriot Cuvee Hemera 2005

Founded in Reims in 1808, Champagne Henriot is one of the few remaining family-owned houses with over two hundred years of independence. Over the years, the house has cultivated a bold approach and a distinctive, luminous style of its own, guided by the pursuit of the purest expression of Chardonnay.

Winemaker Notes

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. This Champagne bears the finesse and liveliness of spring. The mineral freshness of the finest Chardonnay heightens the delicious accents of the very best Pinot Noir. Finally, the elegant patina of time transforms this cuvée into a rich Champagne blessed with magnificent expression.

Blend: 100% Grand Cru vineyards of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot noir

97 Points Decanter

This long-awaited new prestige cuvée is a perfectionist creation of Henriot's villages, all Grands Crus. It's a brilliant medley of top Chardonnay from cooler Chouilly and the poised weight of Avize and Mesnil, combined with equally rigorous grand cru Pinot from north Montagne, Mailly and Verzenay. 2005 saw a cold winter, mild spring and very hot July into August, with humidity causing rot in Pinot Noir in the minor sites. The Chardonnay was more successful in the warmth of September, giving a rich, Burgundian style. This has a gold-tinged colour and an exquisite mousse, full of Chardonnay aromas of apricots, citrus fruits, toast and honey. It has a masterly Grand Cru Pinot mouthfeel of satin, subtle and honeyed, intense without heaviness. The lower dosage of 5g/l makes it an ideal match with fish. It was aged on its lees for 12 years.