Henriot Brut Millesime 2012

Henriot Brut Millesime 2012 — A Vintage Champagne of Rare Elegance

A Tribute to Exceptional Terroir and Timeless Craft

Henriot is a historic Champagne house renowned for crafting refined, terroir-driven wines since 1808. Their Henriot Brut Millesime 2012 embodies everything connoisseurs admire in a vintage Champagne: it’s precise, balanced, and shaped by the unique character of a standout harvest.

The 2012 growing season in Champagne was famously challenging—marked by late frost and hail—but rewarded patient growers with an outstanding autumn. Henriot seized this gift of nature to craft a vintage blend that shows both power and finesse. Sourced exclusively from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, this Champagne is a benchmark of the house’s skill and dedication.

A Delicate Balance of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

Henriot’s 2012 vintage is a beautifully judged blend of 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir, expressing the best of both noble grapes. The Chardonnay contributes elegance, citrus brightness, and fine minerality; the Pinot Noir brings depth, structure, and subtle red berry undertones.

After fermentation, the wine matured for an impressive eight years on its lees in Henriot’s chalk cellars, developing complexity and a fine, creamy mousse. A restrained dosage of around 6 grams per liter keeps the style crisp yet generous, letting the vintage and vineyard speak for themselves.

Tasting Notes — Precise, Layered, and Sophisticated

Appearance: Pale gold with persistent, tiny bubbles that dance in the glass—a sign of extended aging and meticulous winemaking.

Aroma: An enchanting nose of citrus peel, fresh green apple, and pear unfolds into delicate notes of white flowers, toasted brioche, roasted nuts, and a hint of honey.

Palate: On the palate, it’s lively yet silky, opening with juicy orchard fruit flavors that give way to richer layers of almond, hazelnut, and light pastry cream. There’s a pleasing backbone of acidity and chalky minerality that keeps the wine vibrant from start to long, graceful finish.

Finish: Clean, refined, and lasting—offering whispers of lemon zest, hazelnut, and elegant toast that linger beautifully.

Critically Acclaimed Vintage

Champagne critics and wine lovers alike praise Henriot Brut Millésime 2012 for its depth and energy:

• 94–96 points from top reviewers highlight its fine mousse, bright citrus lift, and harmonious maturity.

• Described by sommeliers as “vibrant yet layered,” combining youthful freshness with the roundness that only time on lees can deliver.

• Frequently noted for its ability to age gracefully for another decade, gaining even more richness and complexity in the cellar.

Perfect Serving & Pairing

Serve this Champagne chilled but not too cold, around 46–50°F (8–10°C), to allow the aromas and flavors to unfold fully. Use a tulip-shaped flute or white wine glass to capture the bouquet.

This refined vintage pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes:

• Fresh oysters, caviar, or sushi for a classic match.

• Creamy cheeses like triple-cream Brie or goat cheese.

• Delicate seafood like scallops, lobster, or poached salmon.

• Light poultry or mushroom risotto to highlight its nutty notes.

It’s equally wonderful as an aperitif or for raising a glass at weddings, anniversaries, and milestone celebrations.

A Collector’s Champagne to Enjoy Now or Hold

Henriot Brut Millésime 2012 is drinking beautifully now, with a bright core of fruit and silky texture, yet it will continue to evolve gracefully for years to come. For collectors or anyone building a special Champagne selection, this bottle offers remarkable value and prestige from a house with over two centuries of expertise.

Raise a Glass to Timeless Quality

Henriot Brut Millésime 2012 is more than a bottle of Champagne — it’s an invitation to savor the artistry of a remarkable year, masterfully captured in each glass. From the first pour to the final lingering sip, it delivers everything a true vintage Champagne should: elegance, depth, and a story of place and patience.