1999 Veuve Clicquot Vintage Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen
ABV: 12%
Closure: Cork

Notes sourced from Moet Hennessy.

Vintage Conditions: A mild winter led to a relatively early bud-break, and a hot month of May produced premature flowering as well as a vigorous setting process. May also witnessed a few hailstorms, which fortunately only caused local damage.

Summer was divided into two parts. The first had mixed weather, with alternating rain and hail interspersed with drier spells, and temperatures that were relatively low for the season. The second, however, took on a southern accent, with a drought that came near to resembling a heat wave. The rain which preceded the harvests acted as a saving grace in certain parts of the vineyard, by encouraging the grapes to ripen and producing a large harvest without altering its quality. The harvests began on 15 September under excellent climatic conditions. The degree of alcohol corresponded to the average in Champagne for the last ten years, while the level of acidity was relatively moderate.

The basic blend is composed of 21 Grand and Premier Crus (55% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay, and 12% Pinot Meunier) situated in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs areas. These proportions respect the Veuve Clicquot style. A relatively low dosage of 9 g/l enables the wine to conserve its attractive vivacity.

This wine has a brilliant, attractive golden-yellow colour. It emanates fruity aromas (peaches, pears, apricots) and very biscuity notes (brioche, honey, almonds, hazelnuts). After a few minutes, the bouquet develops, leading to hints of sweet spices and with the fruity notes taking on a more candied flavour. In the mouth, the wine is flavoursome and full. The Pinot Noir grapes, the majority variety in this wine, provide strength and structure, while the finish, where the Chardonnay plays its role perfectly, remains fresh and clean. The Veuve Clicquot style is superbly expressed in this vintage: the winey sensations are ever present but not excessively.

A wine to share among friends, it is difficult to resist a glass accompanied by a few Italian grissini biscuits. However, it truly comes into bloom when served with food. Saltwater (John Dory, bass) or freshwater fish (pikeperch, perch) will enchant traditional connoisseurs. For a more unusual duo, the more adventurous will try a dish of crayfish à l'armoricaine or good quality poultry cooked in sauce. In good conditions, the Vintage 1999 can be kept for 10 to 15 years, during which time it will develop complexity and aromatic richness.
Alc/vol: 12%