Rare Champagne traces its roots back to 6 May, 1785, when Florens-Louis Heidsieck met Queen Marie Antoinette, expressing his desire to create a cuvée ‘worthy of a queen’. Two centuries later, the brand released its first vintage, Rare Millésime 1976.
In the past four decades, Rare Champagne has declared only 14 vintages, each representing the most exceptional years in Champagne.
A vertical tasting like no other
This tasting offers a unique opportunity to explore the diversity and longevity of Rare Champagne. These wines undergo malolactic fermentation and avoid oak ageing, allowing them to evolve gracefully over time.
In this masterclass, participants will experience how vintages develop in complexity as they age. Produced in limited quantities, each vintage showcases the finest years.
Guests will also compare two vintages from 2006 and 2008 — bottled in magnums, which age more slowly, providing deeper insight into Rare Champagne’s remarkable longevity.
Photo credit: Marco Strullu.
An exclusive world preview
As a highlight of the masterclass, guests will be among the first to taste Rare Champagne’s newest Millésime, set for release in November 2024. This exclusive preview offers a glimpse into the future of Rare Champagne and its continued dedication to excellence.
Wines to be tasted:
(scroll down to see scores and tasting notes)
Rare, Rosé Millésime, Champagne, France 2012
Rare, Rosé Millésime, Champagne, France 2014
Rare, Millesime, Champagne, France 2013
Rare, Millésime, Champagne, France 2008 (magnum)
Rare, Millésime, Champagne, France 2006 (magnum)
Rare, Millésime, Champagne, France 2002
Rare, Millésime, Champagne, France 1988
Exclusive release
This masterclass delves into the essence of Rare Champagne, led by Émilien Boutillat, who preserves its noble heritage while embracing innovation. Each bottle tells a story, offering tasters the chance to appreciate the subtleties that define Rare Champagne as the Jewel of Champagne.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to vintage cuvées, this masterclass promises an unforgettable journey through elegance, history, and exquisite taste.
Tickets are strictly limited so we recommend booking as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Buy tickets
Essential information
Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London
Date: Saturday 16 November 2024 from 11am to 5:30pm
Location: The Landmark London, NW1 6JQ
Price: Grand Tasting tickets £115 | with Cellar Collection access £155 | Masterclass tickets from £155