Taste & Aging
Complexity
Exceptionally complexDrinking Window
Aromas
Food Pairing
Vintage Report
Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018 Champagne, France
Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018 is a prestige champagne entirely centered around Pinot Noir, thus remaining true to Madame Clicquot's vision: black grapes yield the most refined white wines. This cuvée was introduced in 1972 to celebrate the house's bicentennial and has since become a symbol of style, precision, and power. The 2018 vintage, also the 25th vintage of La Grande Dame, is characterized by exceptional ripeness and balance, the result of a contrasting yet highly favorable growing season.
Vineyards and region
The grapes come from France, from the Champagne region, where Veuve Clicquot works with a selection of historically strong Pinot Noir plots. Pinot Noir forms the backbone of La Grande Dame and defines the wine's character. A particularly wet winter followed in 2018, followed by a sunny spring and a long, warm summer, which resulted in optimal ripening. These conditions yielded grapes with concentration and fresh tension, precisely the combination needed for a champagne with longevity and finesse.
Vinification and maturation
La Grande Dame 2018 is blended from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. The focus is on precision and purity, with vinification that preserves the natural expression of the grapes. The dosage is 6 g/l, giving the wine a dry, refined style without harshness. Bottle aging contributes complexity and texture while maintaining freshness. This approach results in a champagne that is already elegant but also clearly poised for further development.
Grape composition
Pinot Noir – Champagne
Pinot Noir makes up 90% of the blend and provides depth, structure and aromatic power.
Chardonnay – Champagne
Chardonnay, 10%, brings freshness and tension and refines the whole.
Tasting notes and serving suggestions
The color is bright golden yellow with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose reveals aromas of lime and yuzu, followed by floral notes such as honeysuckle, and nuances of apple and pear. On the palate, the wine is precise and layered, with fresh acidity, subtle spiciness of ginger and tonka bean, and light pastry notes. A distinct saltiness adds tension to the finish. Serve this champagne preferably at around 10–12°C. At the table, it truly shines with refined dishes that emphasize freshness and purity, such as seasonal vegetables, light fish dishes, or elegant risottos.
Awards
No specific vintage distinctions are noted in available documentation for 2018.
Meta description: Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018 is a prestigious champagne made with 90% Pinot Noir, characterised by precision, freshness and great ageing potential.
Product details
| Alcohol content | 12.5% |
|---|---|
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Size | 0.75L |
| Region | Champagne |
| Sub-region | Reims Mountain |
| Appellation | Reims |
| Producer | Veuve Clicquot |
| Varietal(s) | Pinot Noir, Chardonnay |
| Ideal serving temperature ? | 10° - 12°C |