Old Champagnes head for Paris travel retail

Charles Heidsieck Champagne has released two old vintages to be sold in the travel retail sector in Paris.

The 1979 and 1981 cuvées were chosen by Philippe Lanusse, head buyer for wine, Champagne and spirits at travel retailer Aelia, as part of a new partnership between the company and Rémy Cointreau’s travel retail arm.

The arrangement is the first of its kind between a Champagne house and an airport retailer.

The magnums of Charles Heidsieck Champagne Charlie Vintage 1979 will be sold exclusively in the Buy Paris Duty Free Grand Cru outlets located in terminals 2E and S3 of Paris Charles de Gaulle airport.

The bottles of 1981 will be available in the same outlets. Recommended retail prices for the products are €750 for the ’79 and €350 for the ’81.

The ’79 is described as being: “Old-gold in colour with floral aromas of violets and roses evolving into fruity notes of plums and sultanas. On the palate more intense notes of vanilla, subtle spices and crystallised fruit become apparent.”

The tasting note for the ’81 mentions “roasted coffee beans, toasted bread and dried apricot,” on the palate with grassy, white flower aromas.

For more information on the state of the travel retail market see the October issue of the drinks business.

Rupert Millar, 14.10.2010