André Clouet Dream Vintage Grand Cru 2012

Winery Background and History

Established in 1741, Champagne André Clouet is a family-owned estate located in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy, within the Montagne de Reims. The Clouet family, originally the official printers to the French royal court, transitioned to winemaking, leveraging their deep roots in the region. Today, Jean-François Clouet continues the legacy, producing Champagnes that reflect both tradition and the unique terroir of Bouzy.

Producer and Winemaker

Jean-François Clouet, the current proprietor and winemaker, is dedicated to crafting Champagnes that express the character of Bouzy’s Pinot Noir. He combines traditional methods with modern techniques, ensuring meticulous attention to detail from vineyard to bottle. His approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the purity of the fruit and terroir to shine through in each cuvée.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate’s vineyards span 9 hectares in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy. These areas are renowned for their chalky soils and favorable microclimates, which contribute to the richness and complexity of the Pinot Noir grapes. The combination of south-facing slopes and well-drained soils ensures optimal ripening conditions, resulting in grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2012 Dream Vintage is a Blanc de Blancs Champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes harvested in 2012. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and fruit character. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle and is aged on the lees for several years, enhancing its complexity and texture. Disgorgement is carried out with a dosage of 6 g/L, classifying it as a Brut Champagne.

Tasting Notes

This Champagne exhibits a bright golden color with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose reveals aromas of ripe white fruit, citrus, and subtle mineral notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and balanced, with flavors of apple, pear, lemon, and a hint of brioche. The wine is well-structured, with a creamy mousse and a long, elegant finish that showcases its chalky minerality.

Food & Wine Pairing

The 2012 Dream Vintage pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including pork, shellfish, rich fish (salmon, tuna, etc.), and mild and soft cheeses. Its vibrant acidity and delicate fruit flavors complement spicy Asian cuisine and charcuterie. The wine’s complexity also makes it a suitable companion for aged cheeses and Mediterranean cuisine.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve this Champagne well-chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) in tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate the aromas and showcase the effervescence. No decanting is necessary. To preserve its freshness and effervescence, consume within a few hours of opening.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 10–12°C (50–54°F). While enjoyable now, this Champagne has the potential to age gracefully for an additional 3–5 years, during which it will develop more nuanced tertiary flavors, such as toasted nuts and dried fruits.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12%