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 2006 Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne Cuvee Rare is a distinguished Champagne blend composed of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. Produced by Piper Heidsieck in the renowned Champagne region of France, this vintage stands out for its complexity and aging potential, sealed traditionally with a cork and containing an alcohol percentage of 12.0%.

Jeb Dunnuck awarded this champagne an exceptional score of 97+, noting that it is a "cellar selection from 8 different Grand Cru vineyards." He describes it as "tight, backward, and straight-up structured," with "brilliant notes of stone fruits, toasted brioche, white flowers, and obvious minerality." Dunnuck emphasizes its need for ample aeration to reveal its full potential, praising its "wonderful mid-palate," "racy mousse," and the balance and class that could allow it to age gracefully for over two decades.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also offers high praise, giving it a score of 94. The review highlights its richness and gourmand quality, with a complex bouquet that includes "aromas of yellow orchard fruit, pears and fresh pineapple with nuances of buttered toast, iodine and smoke." On the palate, this Champagne is "full-bodied, broad and textural," yet maintains freshness and a "surprisingly tight-knit core." The review suggests that it has "sufficient structural tension" for over a decade of evolution, reflecting the warm vintage with its generous, sun-kissed profile.

Vinous, represented by Antonio Galloni, scored the wine 93 points. Galloni describes the 2006 Cuvee Rare as "racy and polished to the core," with notes of "baked apple tart, apricot, lemon confit, vanillin and brioche." He highlights its "striking aromatic intensity and creaminess," which builds over time in the glass, making it a "sumptuous and forward" Champagne with considerable near and medium-term appeal.

Wine Spectator rated the Champagne at 96 points, commending its "aromas and flavors of toasted brioche and grilled nut," which complement the "yellow plum, nectarine and grated ginger notes." The review mentions its rich and creamy texture, "finely woven and beautifully integrated" with a "firm backbone of mouthwatering acidity," providing a precise balance for its lush flavors. The recommendation is to enjoy this Champagne now through 2029, with a production of 14,000 cases, 1,800 of which were imported.

Overall, the 2006 Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne Cuvee Rare is celebrated for its complexity, balance, and aging potential, making it a standout choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.