Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Champagne Brut Rosé la Grande Dame 1998

A luminous, deep gold/red and a persistent, fine mousse. The rich, intense nose displays notes of dried fruits (black figs, dates) and mild spices (vanilla) in harmony with a softer, almost creamy base. On the palate the texture is deep, dense and tightly woven. The structure of the pinot noir is perfectly rounded. Gracious notes of black cherries and raspberries dominate the finish. The exceptional flavor and taste of this truly great Champagne make it a magnificent accompaniment to fine cuisine, or it can be enjoyed as an aperitif for its own superb merits. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VINTAGE: read more...1995 began with a mild winter and budburst occurred during the second week of April. After a short cold spell, the flowering was ecellent, due to hot, almost summer-like weather. Ripening was very raped and picking began on September 21st. This is a vintage that will age very well. Components: Exclusively from the 8 Grand crus vineyards purchased by Madame Clicquot in the 19th century. 37.5% Chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs (Avize, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger) 62.5% Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and Grand Vallee de la Marne (Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Aÿ) 15% still Pinot Noir (Bouzy) Intense, penetrating copper-salmon hue; small bubbles and impressive mousse. Concentrated, aromatic melange of red fruit, mineral and citrus. Similar elements burst forth on the palate in a sensory blaze. Red fruit and citrus are beautifully balanced with harmonious notes of minerals and biscuit in the background. Displays exceptional finesse without losing its power. Very long finish with red fruit aspects followed by an engaging sense of minerality. -Wine News    (hide)

December 2008

A luminous, deep gold/red and a persistent, fine mousse. The rich, intense nose displays notes of dried fruits (black figs, dates) and mild spices (vanilla) in harmony with a softer, almost creamy base. On the palate the texture is deep, dense and tightly woven. The structure of the pinot noir is perfectly rounded. Gracious notes of black cherries and raspberries dominate the finish. The exceptional flavor and taste of this truly great Champagne make it a magnificent accompaniment to fine cuisine, or it can be enjoyed as an aperitif for its own superb merits. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VINTAGE: read more...1995 began with a mild winter and budburst occurred during the second week of April. After a short cold spell, the flowering was ecellent, due to hot, almost summer-like weather. Ripening was very raped and picking began on September 21st. This is a vintage that will age very well. Components: Exclusively from the 8 Grand crus vineyards purchased by Madame Clicquot in the 19th century. 37.5% Chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs (Avize, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger) 62.5% Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and Grand Vallee de la Marne (Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay, Bouzy, A) 15% still Pinot Noir (Bouzy)    (hide)

The Wine News rating: 97

December 2008

In stock

March 2009

Deep ruby, loaded with the tiniest bubbles and filled with crushed red berry fruit. A rosé with real red wine character. A great companion to roast fowl or red meats.

Wine Spectator ReviewFirm, rich and powerful, featuring dried berry, spice and citrus flavors. The structure is bracing, but there's plenty of substance, so enjoy it now with food or give it a few years to settle down. Drink now through 2012.

January 2009