2015 Champagne Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage

This century, Moët & Chandon produces a range of more than beautiful vintages under the name Grand Vintage. To unpack a few: the Grand Vintage 2002, 2006, 2008 and 2009 are all gems. Yes are – and have not been – because they are still rock solid. That is the great quality of a vintage Champagne, or as the French say, of a millésimé. Now there is the Grand Vintage 2015. Another whopper. It can compete with the already legendary 2002, 2012 and 2013. The great quality also has to do with the great craftsmanship of Benoît Gouez, genius chef de cave, responsible for the Champagnes of Moët & Chandon.

These Grand Vintage champagnes have been made since 1842. Each Vintage champagne is made from the best grapes from one harvest year, which is why each vintage (in French: millésime) is unique. The Grand Vintage 2015 is the successor to the Grand Vintage 2013. This champagne has matured for a long time (6 years) and the aging after disgorging is at least 6 months. The dosage is 5 grams per liter so it is an extra brut champagne. The blend of the Grand Vintage 2015 consists of 44% pinot noir, 32% chardonnay, 24% meunier.

Tasting notes from Moët & Chandon about the Grand Vintage 2015
A tender and vegetal bouquet - The nose first expresses itself with restraint, subtly hinting a soft and fresh white-green universe. Initial notes of breadcrumbs, fresh brioche and almond paste give way to elderflower and jasmine, then to fruit such as white peach and watermelon. Notes of garrigue at dawn complete the ensemble. A frank and enveloping palate - The attack on the mouth is direct and confident. The structure is generous, ample and supple, reminiscent of the cotton flower. The enveloping and caressing texture is accompanied by floral, aniseed and mentholated nuances which bring lightness and freshness for such a solar vintage. The finish lingers on a slightly sappy note, with a delicate bitterness evoking fresh almonds."