La Grande Dame 2006

To celebrate their 200th year, the Maison Veuve Clicquot released the 1972 La Grande Dame to honor Mrs. Clicquot, nicknamed La Grande Dame de la Champagne (Champagne's Great Lady). La Grande Dame embodies the pure expression of the Pinot Noir and Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin style.

The 2006 La Grande Dame boasts an intense gold-tinted colour, and very fine bubbles. At first, the nose reveals deep salty and mineral notes, with hints of acacia flower, peony, and pear. Warmer nuances of hazelnut and toasted almond complement the whole. Aeration reveals a rich, sensuous bouquet with brioche, nougat, ginger, and candied lemon. To the palate, this substantial champagne offers fresh and silky texture with fleshy structure, and chalky minerals qualities. The lovely long, fresh, generous finish suggests a subtle sweetness on the aftertaste without infringing on balance.