Friday 25 December 2015

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Champagne La Grande Dame 1998




It is the cuvée de prestige, created in 1972, to solemnize 200 years since the founding of the Maison and, above all, is the ultimate tribute to Madame Barbe Nicole Clicquot, whose masterful work was essential for the expansion and reputation of this brand.

La Grande Dame, drawn only in exceptional vintages, is an assemblage dominated by the Pinot Noir - usually 65%-70% - and Chardonnay. Only grapes from its own vineyards, of 8 Grand Cru villages: Le Mesnil, Avize, Oger for Chardonnay; Bouzy, Verzenay, Verzy, Aÿ and Ambonnay for Pinot Noir. Between seven and ten years sur lattes and manual remuage. My bottle was disgorged 6 years ago.

A thin perlage, with the nose, elegant and lively, but not too complex, taking straight a refined and oriental road, - white pepper, cinnamon and saffron - while enter, with oxygenation, butter and quince, citrus fragrances and toasted almonds, with the mineral profile just basted and a little hidden.

A fresh mouth and almost symmetrical, continues the journey to the east, with a fine spicy texture - so much saffron - which is accompanied by malt, with clear hints of apricot and candied citrus, while the mineral aspect remains stalled. Tirelessly velvety and vibrant palate, for great tension sips and a really spicy and long finish.

An excellent drink and a bottle still growing, that could become overwhelming, in a few years.


 Best wishes
Merry Xmas and happy new year


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