Climate Extremes Combined with Grand & Premier Cru Vineyards Results in Aromatic Complexity in Henriot’s Newest Vintage Champagne
NEW YORK, February 1, 2022 – The internationally renowned independent and family-owned house of Henriot, founded in 1808 by Apolline Henriot, has announced the release of its newest creation: Millésime 2012 (SRP $100). Inspired by the philosophy of the Maison’s founder, Millésime 2012 pays tribute to nature by expressing the characteristics of a singular year through a vintage Champagne. It will be available nationwide in the U.S. beginning this month and can be purchased at select fine wine retailers.
As a snapshot of the overall year, Millésime 2012 not only represents the house’s mastery of time, but also of the art of blending. Troublesome episodes of frost, hail, and heavy rain throughout the first few months of the year eventually turned to favorable heat waves at harvest time, which led to even ripening of grapes with vast aromatic diversity. “During harvest, the heterogeneity of the grape profiles resulting from the weather conditions in 2012 made quite an impression,” says Vineyard Director and Cellar Master, Alice Tétienne. “When we made the blend for this new creation, our desire was to capture the diversity of the aromatic profiles while achieving harmonious balance. Millésime 2012 is thus a wine of contrasted harmony.”
A blend of 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir, Millésime 2012 is derived exclusively from the house’s historical Grand and Premier Cru vineyards located in the Montagne de Reims (Mailly-Champagne, Verzy, Trépail and Avenay) and Côte des Blancs (Chouilly and Avize).
The house of Henriot seeks to continue the legacy of Apolline, known for her savoir-faire and respect for the Champagne region. “For more than two centuries, my family has been perpetuating these precious creations that reflect the most beautiful moments in the history of Champagne,” says Gilles de Larouzière Henriot, CEO of Maisons et Domaines Henriot and eighth generation member of the Henriot family. “If there is anything these two centuries of Champagne-making have taught us, it’s that time is an ally; while patience is our secret.”
TASTING NOTES: CHAMPAGNE HENRIOT MILLESIME 2012
(750 ml; 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir; blend of six Grand and Premier Crus; aged for 8 years on lees; 6 g/L dosage; SRP $100)
Characterized by aromatic complexity, the nose is intense and almost heady; though counterbalanced by incredible elegance in its airy and floral notes. Aromatic elements of meringue, ripe fruit, summer currants, chalk, minerality, and patina are confirmed on the palate. “Like a ballet coming together, Millésime 2012’s array of complexities is what make this Champagne creation so unique and compelling.” says Tétienne.
For more information on Champagne Henriot, visit www.champagne-henriot.com, follow @champagnehenriot on Instagram and Facebook, and sign up for Champagne Henriot’s Vinconnect newsletter.
About Maisons & Domaines Henriot America
Established in New York City in 2005 by the Henriot family, Maisons & Domaines Henriot America is an import company specializing in the distribution, sales and marketing of high-end wines produced by wineries which are references in their own region. Representing centuries of family winemaking expertise, the portfolio includes the Henriot family brands, as well as leading producers from Oregon Italy, and France: Champagne Henriot, William Fèvre (Chablis, Burgundy), Bouchard Père et Fils (Burgundy), Château de Poncié (Fleurie, Beaujolais), Beaux Frères (Oregon, USA) and Tenuta di Ghizzano (Tuscany, Italy).
