Vintage Rosé 2012 is the expression of a prodigious harvest, despite an extremely challenging climate.
In 1810, Madame Clicquot invented the first Vintage Champagne, in 2008 Veuve Clicquot declared the 65th vintage of the Maison.
As with every Veuve Clicquot champagne, Pinot Noir dominates (61%) and provides the structure that is so typically Veuve Clicquot, followed by Chardonnay (34%) that adds finesse and elegance essential in a perfectly balanced wine, and then Meunier (5%) that rounds out the blend. To complete the cuvée, 14% Bouzy red Pinot Noir red wine is added. New to Vintage Rosé 2008 is that 5% of the wines were produced and aged in wooden casks (foudres) from forests in Central France, and this addition increases the champagne’s strength and aromatic richness. The cask-aged wines act as spices to the blend, bringing very lightly woody, vanilla and toasted aromas.
TASTING NOTES:
“The palate is powerful and voluminous, with an attack that is distinct and clear. It unfolds with initial aromas of luscious red fruit, strawberry and Morello cherry. Next to arrive are dense notes of noble tannins; their velvety, silky caress is the perfect counterpoint to Vintage Rosé 2012’s spicy saffron and peppery notes.”