Champagne Veuve Clicquot Extra Brut Extra Old 5ème Cuvée

Complex Champagne based on old reserve wines with tension, depth, and a strikingly dry style.

About Veuve Clicquot

Veuve Clicquot is one of the historic houses from Reims, known for its consistent style and strong focus on structure and Pinot Noir. The reserve wines play an important role within the house and form the basis for this special cuvée.

Extra Brut Extra Old No. 5

The Extra Brut Extra Old Nº5 is composed of seven carefully selected reserve wines from the years 1996, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. In doing so, this cuvée consciously deviates from the classic non-vintage concept. Instead of young base wines, the emphasis lies entirely on aging and development.

The blend consists of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and 20% Meunier. Pinot Noir provides structure and length, while Chardonnay brings tension and freshness. Meunier adds roundness and accessibility without sacrificing precision.

Vinification of the Veuve Clicquot Extra Brut Extra Old Nº5

This cuvée is characterized by double aging. First, the individual reserve wines age in tanks on their fine lees. This imparts extra texture and aromatic depth. This is followed by a second aging in the bottle, during which the wine undergoes a minimum of three years of sur lie aging until disgorgement.

This approach ensures a clear combination of freshness and development. The low dosage of approximately 3 grams per liter underscores this character and allows the structure to speak for itself.

Tasting Notes Extra Brut Extra Old No. 5

In the glass, light golden yellow with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose opens with fresh citrus such as grapefruit and lemon, followed by dried fruits such as almond and hazelnut. Subsequently, distinct ripening notes emerge: brioche, lightly toasted bread, and a subtle floral touch of linden blossom and lemon verbena.

On the palate, tight and lively, with a distinct salinity and fresh acidity. Citrus once again plays a leading role, with notes of lime, yuzu, and grapefruit zest. This is complemented by lightly roasted nuts, white pepper, and a hint of ginger. The texture is precise and slightly creamy, with a long, dry, and clean finish.

Structure and storage potential

The combination of old reserve wines, low dosage, and long aging gives this Champagne a distinct structure and balance. The wine is already very drinkable but has sufficient concentration and freshness to develop further. A storage potential of more than 15 years is realistic.

Food and wine pairings

Thanks to its dry and gastronomic style, this is a Champagne that is excellent for pairing with food. Think of oysters, shellfish, and raw fish, but also dishes with umami such as tartare or light Asian preparations.

This wine also comes into its own with refined, creamy dishes, such as risotto or poultry with a subtle sauce. The fresh acidity and salinity provide balance, while the aging offers sufficient depth.