Champagne Club by Richard Juhlin delighted to announce a significant development at the esteemed Charles Heidsieck Champagne House. [ read the full champagne story ]
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Émilien Érard: The New Guardian of Charles Heidsieck’s Legacy
Émilien Érard has been appointed as the new Cellar Master (Chef de Cave), taking the reins from Élise Losfelt, who departs to dedicate herself to her family estate. This transition marks a new chapter for Charles Heidsieck, one that promises to uphold its rich heritage while embracing fresh perspectives.
Érard, who joined Charles Heidsieck in 2018, is no stranger to the intricate world of Champagne production. His journey within the House has seen him excel in various pivotal roles, including the crucial oversight of winery operations and the cultivation of strong relationships with winegrowers. For the past seven years, his discerning palate has also been an integral part of the tasting committee, shaping the very essence of Charles Heidsieck’s celebrated cuvées.
His deep understanding of the terroir, the meticulous art of winemaking, and the House’s distinctive style positions Émilien Érard as a natural successor. Champagne Club eagerly anticipates the continued excellence and innovation that will undoubtedly flourish under his expert guidance at Charles Heidsieck.
About Charles Heidsieck
Founded in Reims in 1851 by Charles-Camille Heidsieck, the Champagne House quickly gained renown, particularly through its founder’s adventurous spirit and travels to the United States, where he earned the nickname “Champagne Charlie.” Charles Heidsieck is recognized as one of the smallest among the Grandes Marques Champagne Houses, yet it is celebrated for both its vintage and non-vintage cuvées.
A hallmark of Charles Heidsieck Champagne is the significant proportion of reserve wines used in its Brut Réserve, with 40% of the blend comprising reserve wines aged an average of 10 years, contributing to its remarkable depth and complexity. The House meticulously blends grapes from around 60 different crus, creating a distinct character that balances the freshness of Chardonnay, the structure of Pinot Noir, and the lush aromas of Meunier.
In 1867, Charles Heidsieck acquired a network of ancient chalk quarries, known as crayères, dating back to the Gallo-Roman era. These extensive underground cellars, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide optimal conditions for the maturation of their wines, with bottles resting patiently for at least four years, and often much longer, to achieve their exceptional quality. Since 2011, Charles Heidsieck has been part of the EPI group, a privately owned French luxury goods group, ensuring a continued commitment to its legacy of excellence.
