Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018

She who was nicknamed the "Grande Dame of Champagne" will indeed have become one of the first businesswomen in history, but beyond that, she will have offered an international dimension to her Champagnes that she cherished so much.

What is the history of Maison Veuve Clicquot?

It was in 1772 that Philippe Clicquot founded his house of Champagne in Reims. He was succeeded by his son François, who married a certain Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin in 1798. When François died prematurely in 1805, Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin found herself at the head of the Champenoise house, and over time proved to be particularly gifted in business. She achieved the feat of maintaining an international distribution network, something very Rare for the time and a testament to her doggedness, and made her Champagnes known throughout Europe among the royal courts, including as far afield as that of the Tsars of Russia.

Success continued over the following centuries, and in 1987 Maison Veuve-Clicquot became part of the LVMH luxury goods group, making it the world's second best-selling Champagne. Veuve-Clicquot's Champagnes have thus never lost their timeless style and great finesse.

What is the terroir of Maison Veuve Clicquot?

The vineyards of Maison Veuve Clicquot cover an area of 390 hectares of vines, nearly 85% of which are classified as Premier Cru (12 communes out of 17) and Grand Cru (20 communes out of 44). Chardonnay is the predominant grape variety, followed by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Throughout the year, more than a hundred winemakers maintain and shape the vineyards of Maison Veuve Clicquot, which has been certified in sustainable viticulture since 2014.

The emblematic cuvées of Maison Veuve Clicquot

Haute couture cuvées see the light of day at Maison Veuve Clicquot, each immortalizing a unique tasting moment. 

The Champagne Millésimé Vintage 2012 is a blend of the three varietals that is carried on a sumptuous aromatic of citrus, fruit Secs and toastiness. Rich and full-bodied, it is perfect for aperitifs and all types of gourmet meals. In version Rosé, Vintage 2012 Rosé is more focused on red fruits and gourmandise.

But it's undeniably La Grande Dame, which is the house's most prestigious cuvée, paying tribute to the "Grande Dame of Champagne". La Grande Dame vintage 2012 sports a label designed by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and its Pinot Noir dominance gives it structure and marked aromatic expression. Particularly harmonious and profound, this is a memorable Champagne.

As for La Grande Dame Millésime 2008, the sensations are different but just as balanced and elegant. Red fruit, citrus and floral notes are intense and make it complex and delicate.