2012 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Vintage Brut, Champagne, France

Born in Reims in 1777, Madame Clicquot was the daughter of a baron, meaning that she was excellently educated. In 1798, she married François Clicquot, the son of Philippe Clicquot, the founder of Maison Clicquot. By that time, the business had been in operation since 1772, built on a foundation of family vineyards. In 1805, François passed away. Soon after, his widow decided to take over the business, becoming one of the first businesswomen of modern times. 5 years later, she released the first vintage Champagne in the region, a sign of her prowess and things to come. Under her leadership, the house thrived, perfecting new and innovative techniques, such as the usage of a riddling table for clarifying Champagne. The very first rosé d'assemblage Champagne was created by blending Bouzy red wines with the Champagne. Even at the time, her contributions were recognized and she became known as the Grande Dame of Champagne. Through the years, the house built on her principles, implementing new techniques and improving the production process and the wines. In 1986, the company was acquired by Louis Vuitton. The yellow label, an unusual color for the time, was first trademarked in 1877. Today, the Brut Yellow Label is the embodiment of the quality and style of the house. Vintage Brut 2012 was released in 2019 and is the 66th vintage Champagne release from the house. Crafted with grapes from grands and premiers crus, the blend consists of 51% Pinot Noir for the structure, 34% Chardonnay for the finesse and elegance, and 15% Meunier to round up the blend. 11% of the wines in Vintage 2012 were aged in foudres (large wooden casks) that bring toasted aromas and hints of wood and vanilla. Get your bottle of this Champagne today!