Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1743 in Épernay by Claude Moët, Moët & Chandon is a cornerstone of the Champagne region and a flagship within LVMH. Every vintage release is unique, reflecting a specific year’s character. The 2016 Grand Vintage, the 77th in the series, exemplifies Moët’s long-standing blend of savoir-faire, historical vineyard holdings, and a deep reserve wine cellar stretching back decades. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Crafted by Cellar Master Benoît Gouez, who oversees a meticulous winter tasting process of over 100 base and reserve wines, the 2016 Vintage emphasizes Chardonnay while maintaining balance with Pinot Noir and Meunier. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The blend comprises approximately 48 % Chardonnay, 34 % Pinot Noir, and 18 % Pinot Meunier, sourced from Grand and Premier Cru vineyards across Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, and Côte des Blancs. The mild early season, frost challenges, and late summer heat created small but high-quality yields. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation occurs parcel-by-parcel in stainless steel, with about 5 % aged in oak. After blending, the wine is bottled for its second fermentation and matures on lees for over six years. Disgorged with a low dosage of 5 g/L, it expresses both austerity and elegance. ()

Tasting Notes

Slightly golden with green highlights, it offers aromas of toasted bread, grains, hazelnut, gingerbread, marzipan, barley sugar, plum, mirabelle, quince, orange blossom, and aniseed. On the palate, a serene, round texture transitions into a structured core, finishing with tangy citrus and mineral nuances. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with tender and savory dishes such as roasted poultry, white meats with fennel, veal, seafood, and subtle game. The wine’s creamy texture and saline finish enhance rich flavors while maintaining balance. ()

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip-shaped or fine-stem white wine glass to concentrate aromatics and preserve effervescence. No decanting is needed; gentle swirling enhances bouquet and texture.

Storage and Ageing Potential

Cellar at 9–12 °C with 70–80 % humidity and darkness. The 2016 Vintage, with its extended lees ageing and low dosage, can cellar gracefully for 10–15 years, developing tertiary notes of honey, brioche, dried fruit, and almond.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Chardonnay: 48 % • Pinot Noir: 34 % • Pinot Meunier: 18 % 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5 %

Scores

• James Suckling: 93 pts – “lovely salinity… mineral and seamless” 
  

• Natalie MacLean (Extra Brut version): 94/100