1988 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Champagne
La Grande Dame de la Champagne - the name is proof of the respect with which The Widow Clicquot enjoyed in her own region, in her own time. Since then, for two centuries international society has celebrated life's greatest moments with The Widow's unique Champagne Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin.The story of La Grande Dame began tragically when, during the Empire of Napoleon 1, she found herself widowed at 28. Determined to continue and develop her husband's business, she won fame with the invention of "remuage", a technique which revolutionised the clarification of champagne. Once used by Madame Clicquot alone, the delicate technique was subsequently adopted by all Champagne Houses.Slowly acquiring vineyards of the finest growths (crus) in Champagne, the total land holding now consists of over 280 hectares (692 acres) located in the heart of Champagne. Like most French vineyards, Champagne is a region where 'appellation' exists, and the notion of 'Crus' is very important. Different Crus are marked on an official scale in order to evaluate the quality of the wines which will be blended. The 'Crus' blended by Veuve Clicquot average 97%, a ranking without peer.
Vintage Conditions: This vintage is characterised by wines of finesse and ageing potential. Indeed the growing season of the vines went very smoothly without any major climatical mishaps. Very favourable climatic conditions during the harvest, lasting from September 19 - 27, led to the perfect ripening of the grapes (9 GL).The budburst was early, and by the latter half of June a quick flowering had occurred. The berry set was excellent; well formed bunches with little 'millerandage'.
Made from a blend of 38% Chardonnay and 62% Pinot Noir. The Chardonnay is from the Veuve Clicquot vineyards located in the most prestigious 'crus' of the Cote des Blancs.The Pinot Noir picked from the best Veuve Clicquot owned plots coming from the Montagne de Reims and the Grande Vallee de la Marne.
Tasting notes: Beautiful colour. A wine of great persistence and and fine, long lasting bubbles. A very delicate nose, yet complex and full of warmth, dominated by dried fruit aromas such as hazelnut, pistachio and apricots, together with a touch of honey and all enhanced by a sensation of creaminess.The palate is vivacious and dynamic; very structured with great richness. Remarkable balance with a delightful fruit aftertaste.
Notes from the House of Veuve Clicquot.