# La Grande Dame 2015 (2015)

- **Producer:** Veuve Clicquot
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €213
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** jasmine, white pepper, pear, clementine, acacia, lemon zest, apple, grapefruit, brioche, cream, pastry, biscuit, butter, hazelnut, ginger, honey, almond

## About this wine

Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015 is a prestige cuvée Champagne, a tribute to the house's founder, Madame Clicquot. The 2015 vintage is noted for its sunny disposition, reflecting a warm and dry summer that contributed to the wine's concentration. The blend is predominantly Pinot Noir (90%) with 10% Chardonnay, sourced from eight historical Grand Cru vineyards. This cuvée embodies the house's commitment to quality and its distinctive style, which often favors Pinot Noir.

## Interesting facts

- Named in honor of Madame Clicquot, the 'Grand Dame of Champagne'.
- 90% Pinot Noir, a testament to Madame Clicquot's philosophy.
- Sourced from 8 historical Grand Cru vineyards.
- Aged for a minimum of 7 years before release.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through richness and complements fatty fish, while its minerality harmonizes with seafood. The nuanced fruit and floral notes can echo or contrast with delicate herb and citrus elements in dishes.

## Wine making process

Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015 is produced using traditional Champagne methods. Grapes are fermented, with a portion of the Chardonnay potentially undergoing malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for an extended period, a minimum of 72 months on its lees in bottle, before disgorgement. This process is followed by a dosage of 6 g/L. The blend is meticulously crafted from grapes sourced from eight historical Grand Cru vineyards, with a strong emphasis on Pinot Noir.