Heidsieck Cuvee Rare is a blend of 17 crus which were aged for over seven years in the House’s cellars. The blend is 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, both from Montagne de Reims. The appearance is a dazzling, crystal-clear, citrine yellow gold enlivened by a delicate, shimmering effervescence. The fruit emerges as delicate and golden, with muted exotic fruits (mango and kiwi) and notes of hazelnut, almond and fig. Mild spices (white pepper, smoked tea and cocoa) reflect the wine’s depth but are honed, precise, and in harmony. The palate is voluptuous, with meringue-like delicacy, while nuances of mint tea, lime, kumquat, pineapple and candied ginger evoke distant lands.

The 1998 Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne Cuvee Rare, exclusively available in magnum format, is a standout example of a Champagne blend. This vintage from the renowned Piper Heidsieck producer in the Champagne region of France showcases a white color and is sealed with a traditional cork closure. With an alcohol content of 12.0%, this wine has garnered significant attention and high praise from multiple professional reviewers.

Vinous awarded this wine a score of 93, describing it as "Bright green-straw" in color. The tasting notes highlight the wine's "pungent, pure, mineral-driven aromas of lime, melon, white peach, and honeysuckle". The reviewer emphasized its "fresh and sharply focused" profile, underscored by "lively citrus flesh and zest flavors" with a "suave underpinning of smoky minerals". The finish is noted as "creamy" and "gently sweet", suggesting that this Champagne is "balanced to reward patience".

John Gilman from View From The Cellar rated this vintage slightly higher, with a score of 94. He praised its "racy" style and youthful profile, which he believes will "fully blossom with more time". Gilman noted the "superb bouquet" featuring "quince, lemon, stony minerality, fresh almond, citrus peel, smoky notes, and blossoming spice tones". On the palate, the wine is described as "full-bodied, pure, and racy" with "pinpoint bubbles, zesty acids, and outstanding length". He recommends leaving it in the cellar for a few more years for optimal enjoyment.

Wine Spectator gave this wine an excellent review with a score of 98. The reviewer highlighted its "beautifully bright and expressive" nature, praising its "precision and vivid acidity". The palate offers a rich mix of "toasted brioche, crystallized honey, bergamot, and crème de cassis", with exotic spices like "cardamom, ginger, and anise" on the finish. They suggest drinking now through 2030.

Decanter also provided a high score of 97, noting the wine's "radiant" quality and likening it to a "perfectly mannered English gentleman". The wine's flavor profile includes "spice and blossom, apricot and smoke", with a "tropical fruit leitmotif". They affirmed its refined and civilized character, recommending consumption between 2019 and 2030.

In summary, the 1998 Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne Cuvee Rare is a highly acclaimed vintage, celebrated for its complexity, balance, and potential for aging.