#Japan #Tokyo #Champagne #Veuve Clicquot #La Grande Dame

Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018: A Toast to Innovation and Elegance

The prestigious Champagne house, Veuve Clicquot, located in Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, is set to unveil its latest vintage of La Grande Dame 2018 in April 2025. This exceptional cuvée pays tribute to Madame Clicquot, a celebrated figure in the Champagne region, and showcases the art of Pinot Noir crafted with passion and innovation.

Honoring Madame Clicquot’s Legacy

La Grande Dame is a special cuvée that embodies the spirit of one of the Champagne region's most influential women, Madame Clicquot, who once stated, "Our black grapes produce the most delicate white wine." Since its establishment in 1772, Veuve Clicquot has relentlessly pursued the highest quality, with a philosophy firmly rooted in the belief that quality should only ever be the finest. Madame Clicquot took over the house at just 27 years old and throughout her life, her bold ideas and insights revolutionized Champagne production.

Among her notable achievements, she recognized the potential of Pinot Noir, acquiring prime vineyards in the Montagne de Reims region. In 1820, she created a landmark white wine using Bouzy black grapes, laying the groundwork for modern winemaking at Veuve Clicquot.

The Perfect Year: La Grande Dame 2018

La Grande Dame is produced only in years when extraordinary quality Pinot Noir is harvested. Marking the 25th vintage since its inception in 1972, the year 2018 demonstrated an exceptional climate with a wet winter followed by a long, hot summer, resulting in outstanding grape maturation. The terroir's complexity in the Champagne region is masterfully reflected in the unique characteristics of the cuvée, achieved through meticulous agricultural management.

Under the leadership of Cellar Master Didier Mariotti, the team at Veuve Clicquot skillfully harnessed the year’s distinct features to create a harmonious balance between freshness, richness, maturity, and elegance, resulting in a Pinot Noir cuvée with profound depth and intricate nuances.

The Art of Pinot Noir: La Grande Dame 2018

Featuring an unusually high 90% blend of Pinot Noir, La Grande Dame 2018 showcases the remarkable qualities of the grape from its exceptional vineyards. The northern Pinot Noir contributes a robust structure, while the southern vines impart a silky smoothness. This cuvée perfectly exemplifies the artistry of Pinot Noir, delivering aromas and flavors that burst with complexity and refinement. Its radiant golden color shines with a translucent quality, revealing delicate salty notes that linger throughout the tasting experience.

Tasting Notes

The enticing golden hue of La Grande Dame 2018 radiates like the sun, presenting a beautiful balance of delicacy and vigor. It features citrus aromas (lemon, lime, yuzu), complemented by floral notes reminiscent of honeysuckle, pear, apple, and white peach, intertwined with subtle hints of almond and fig. On the palate, the citrus freshness and fine salinity stand out, alongside the lingering spice nuances of ginger, licorice, and white pepper.

A Sustainable Approach

Accompanying the release of La Grande Dame 2018 is a new visual identity that employs environmentally friendly materials. The gift boxes are 100% recyclable and free from virgin plastics. Utilizing 60% linen and 40% certified wood fibers, the packaging signifies Veuve Clicquot’s commitment to sustainability.

Garden Gastronomy Experience

Since 2021, Veuve Clicquot has advocated for a unique culinary experience known as "Garden Gastronomy" that pairs exquisite cuisine with the elevation of vegetables. Partnering with renowned Michelin-starred chefs worldwide, this initiative showcases over 300 varieties of vegetables, fruits, and herbs grown in their lush 2,500 square meter vegetable garden at the Manoir de Verzy.

The global launch event for La Grande Dame 2018 took place in Paris on April 3, featuring 11 chefs from around the world, including Chef Kanji Kobayashi of Michelin-starred Villa Aida from Wakayama, Japan. Each chef created a dish inspired by La Grande Dame 2018, illuminating the artistic magic of Pinot Noir.

Chef Comments

Chef Kanji Kobayashi described the event as a luxurious and delightful experience, emphasizing the refined creations inspired by the cuvée. He noted the harmonious flavors of yuzu, pear, white peach, and ginger, resonating with his culinary style.

Meanwhile, in his comment, Chef Kobayashi elaborated on the intricate collaboration with fellow chefs, creating dishes that not only matched theme values but also showcased their individual culinary identities.

Conclusion

Veuve Clicquot continues to carry forward Madame Clicquot’s spirit of innovation and excellence through remarkable cuvées like La Grande Dame 2018. The dedication to quality, sustainability, and culinary artistry ensures that Veuve Clicquot remains a beacon of joy and sophistication in the world of champagne.

For more information, visit Veuve Clicquot's official website.