In the midst of the Bordeaux 2020 En Primeur campaign, we have the surprise release of the eagerly anticipated Champagne, Rare Millésime 2008, one of the last Tête de Cuvée Bruts from the region to be released from this historic vintage.

There is a reason why it has its name, first conceived in 1976, Rare Champagne is only made in truly exceptional years. This 2008 vintage being only the 12th release in its 45 year history. Formally part of the Piper Heidsieck, Rare Champagne is now managed and labelled independently.

Few would dispute the sheer pedigree of this rare prestige cuvée given that it is made by the renowned Régis Camus, the most awarded Champagne Cellar Master of the last century. Eight time winner of the International Wine Challenge's 'Champagne Cellar Master of the Year' award, his accolades leave sparkling wine lovers in little doubt over the quality of his wine.

Scoring double 97 points from Wine Spectator and the International Wine & Spirits Competition, 96 points from Wine Enthusiast and 93+ points from the Wine Advocate, Jancis Robinson MW believes this newly released 2008 is 'truly an exciting, luxurious champagne', awarding it 17.5/20.

The Rare 2008 is like 'a stallion out of the gate' showing an amazing 'explosion of power' (WS). Settling down to become very elegant, it is 'lifted and refreshing', with Robinson noting how this 'seems much more youthful than 12 years old' even though it has had an extra 3 years in bottle before release compared to most other 2008 Vintage Tête de Cuvée Brut Champagne, a real testament to Régis's skill as a winemaker. It is also an indication of its long life ahead, with the Wine Advocate's William Kelley giving it a drinking window up to 2045.

As with all Rare Champagne Bruts, the 2008 is a blend of 11 Grands and Premier Cru vineyards, comprising 70% Chardonnay from Montagne de Reims, Villers Marmery, Vertus and Montgueux the rest Pinot Noir from Ay, Verzy and Ambonnay. Champagne fanatics will note that Montagne de Reims is better known for its Pinot Noir but Régis prizes the freshness and minerality that Chardonnay from this area brings.

Released at only £330 per case IB, Rare Champagne is one of the rarest releases in the upper echelons of sparkling wine and with the price rises we have already seen on the secondary market from other famous names like Dom Perignon 2008 and Cristal 2008 since release their release, this 2008 looks to be exceptional value.