Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015

As Madame Clicquot used to say 200 years ago, “Our black grapes give the finest white wines” an affirmation that still rings true. Beloved for its versatility, the Pinot Noir grape expresses itself differently according to its growing conditions and the year in which it is harvested. As a fine blend of Veuve Clicquot’s historical Grands Crus, La Grande Dame is the pinnacle of the Maison’s oenological prowess, with an immense ageing potential. Artist Paola Paronetto’s own personal colour palette, is one of six colours chosen by the artist to express the optimism and emotion inherent in Veuve Clicquot’s 2015 vintage of La Grande Dame. Forming part of a chromatic symphony that echoes the harmony found within the bottle, the box is made sustainably to reflect the Maison’s commitment to eco initiatives. It is 100% reusable and recyclable and is made from a mix of hemp, cotton and FSC-certified pulp. An exceptional pinot-led vintage from an outstanding year. The 2015 season in Champagne was very warm, with low rainfall and good sunshine, resulting in concentrated and structured wines. Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015 is made from a thoughtful blend of 90% pinot noir and 10% chardonnay, grown in eight historic grand cru vineyards. The vineyards – Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Aÿ, Avize, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger – are some of the region’s most prestigious. Full of tension and elegance, a beautiful golden colour that sparkles brightly. On the nose, there are initial notes of white flowers, such as jasmine, honeysuckle and vine flowers followed by fruitier nuances of apple, pear and peach. A few notes of fresh sliced almond and frangipane complete the bouquet. In the mouth, there are more complex aromas: dried apricot, hazelnuts, honey and sugar candy. Silky textures give the wine its personality, elegance and character, while the ageing has imparted depth and power to the wine. Pair La Grande Dame 2015 with seasonal, locally sourced and extremely fresh products – such as a salad with lobster carpaccio, citrus fruit and pumpkin from the vegetable garden – to perfectly reveal its elegance and freshness. Or try it alongside a pea gnocchi with chervil broth and green apple. La Grande Dame 2015 is an exceptional sunny vintage for a wine full of tension and elegance. It reveals this great wine’s verticality thanks to the Pinot Noirs harvested from our historical Grands Crus. – Didier Mariotti, Veuve Clicquot Cellar Master. This graceful Champagne offers hints of smoke and toasted brioche that tran- sition to patisserie apple and blackberry fruit, candied ginger and man- darin orange peel notes. Seamlessly knit and mouthwatering, with a minerally underpinning and a finely detailed, dotted bead. Lush and creamy on the vibrant, lasting finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2035. – Wine Spectator, 95 Points. The Finer Details Style – Champagne Varietal – 90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay Country – France Region – Champagne Vintage – 2015 Bottle Size 750ml ABV – 12.5%