Veuve Clicquot Brut Vintage 750ml
Vintage 2012 displays a bright yellow color with refined gold hints. The nose is fresh, delicate and saline. Then, a whole new universe unveils. Juicy, candied or dried apricots set the tone. Enhanced with grilled, toasted notes, the nose evolves towards complex aromas of figs, dried fruits, honey, trufffe and mocha, giving the wine its amplitude. On the other side, the wood, brings soft spices of vanilla and nutmeg. On the palate, the attack is fresh and frank. Then appear the first aromas of fruits with mirabelle tart, candied citrus and roasted pears notes. Finally, refreshing notes of green hazelnuts and almonds arise. The structure, signature of the vintage cuvée, is angular and complete, and the Pinot Noir plays its full role of foundation. And so, with balance, the Vintage 2012 unveils a beautiful liveliness on the palate and refined pastry notes.
Pairs well with veal, crawfish, and smoked scallops.
Blend: 51% Pinot Noir, 34% Chardonnay, 15% Meunier
Professional Review
Wine & Spirits: 94 PointsThis focuses on red fruit (51 percent pinot noir, 15 percent meunier), with chardonnay providing the balance, all of it from premier or grand cru sites. A portion of the blend (11 percent) was aged in foudres, adding power to the wine’s structure without diminishing its scent of spring flowers, a sunny, floral note that contrasts the wine’s chalk cloud of minerality and its rich depths of flavor. A great vintage from Clicquot, this is fresh, grand and giving.
Wine Enthusiast: 92 PointsThis is a vintage very much in the producer’s style. It is soft, with a dosage that gives baked-apple flavors as well as acidity. Both need to come together in this young wine. Its dosage will allow it to age well into a toasty old age.