Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Rosé 2006 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772 by Philippe Clicquot-Muiron and famously led by Madame Clicquot from 1805, pioneered vintage bottling and riddling. “La Grande Dame,” introduced in 1972 to honor Madame Clicquot, is the house’s prestige cuvée showcasing only Grand Cru vineyards. The 2006 Rosé, aged long on lees and hand-selected, exemplifies centuries of innovation and excellence.

Producer and Wine Maker

Cellar Masters Dominique Demarville and Jean-Marc Gallot, supported by a tasting committee, craft each vintage with precision. For 2006, they emphasized Pinot Noir from Bouzy’s Clos Colin and top Grand Cru sites, ensuring delicate Rosé character while maintaining structural depth and aromatic complexity.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes sourced from Grand Cru Pinot Noir vineyards in Aÿ, Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay, Bouzy (including Clos Colin), and Chardonnay from Avize and Le Mesnil‑sur‑Oger. The cool maritime climate with chalky soils and marked diurnal shifts promote balanced ripening and elegant acidity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Pinot Noir grapes are partially macerated to produce red wine, then blended with white base wines, including up to 30% reserve wines. The blend of ~70–80 parcels matured on lees for a minimum of 7 years. Disgorged in 2015 with ~8 g/L dosage, then bottled with collector’s gift presentation.

Tasting notes

Copper‑tinged robe with fine persistent mousse. Aromas of white raspberry, candied ginger, baked strawberry, orange zest, brioche and pastry cream. On the palate, it is creamy and full-bodied yet precise, revealing pomegranate, red currant, saline minerality, spice, toasted nuts and a refined, lingering finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with seafood—oysters, sashimi, scallop—rich foie gras, roasted poultry, game, duck breast, nuanced charcuterie, aged mild cheeses, and gentle spiced mains. Suitable for gourmet multi-course meals.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 9–12 °C in a large tulip- or white-wine glass to highlight its aromatic nuance and texture. No decanting required; gentle swirl enhances expression.

Storage and Aging Potential

Optimal cellaring at 9–12 °C with >70% humidity and darkness. Drinks splendidly now through 2031, with potential to age into 2040. Over time it will reveal honeyed, nutty, dried fruit tertiary notes while retaining freshness.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

≈53% Pinot Noir (includes ~15% red wine from Clos Colin), ≈47% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5% ABV

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 95

• Wine Enthusiast: 96

• Robert Parker (Wine Advocate): 94

• James Suckling: 95