Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial N.V. 750 mL Gift Box

Winery Background and History Moët & Chandon was founded in 1743 by Claude Moët in Épernay, France and has grown to be one of the most iconic Champagne houses in the world, synonymous with celebration and luxury. Since the 18th century the house blended sparkling wines for royalty, aristocracy and global events, helping to popularize Champagne globally. Its Brut Impérial cuvée, first introduced in 1869, remains the flagship non-vintage Champagne, representing effortless style with consistency across vintages. Moët’s history reflects innovation in production and global marketing, cementing its status as a benchmark Champagne producer.

Producer and Winemaker Moët & Chandon’s Brut Impérial is produced by Maison Moët & Chandon in the heart of the Champagne region under the guidance of the house’s cellar team responsible for blending. The cellar team selects and assembles over 100 wines from numerous vintages and vineyards across Champagne to achieve a consistent house style characterized by bright fruit, elegant structure and fine mousse. Their blending philosophy emphasizes balance, vibrancy and a signature style that unites freshness with subtle complexity.

Vineyards and Micro Climate Grapes for Brut Impérial are sourced from over 100 vineyards across Champagne’s crus, predominantly Grand and Premier Cru sites, drawing from diverse soils of chalk, limestone and clay. The micro-climates of these sites provide cool growing conditions with marked diurnal shifts, supporting slow and balanced ripening of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. This mosaic of terroir contributes to the wine’s aromatic intensity, structural balance and freshness, reflecting the breadth of Champagne’s unique terroir.

Vinification & Aging Methods Brut Impérial is crafted by blending base wines from multiple vintages followed by secondary fermentation in bottle according to the traditional méthode champenoise. After tirage and secondary fermentation, wines age on lees for a minimum period (often over 24 months for non-vintage) to develop complexity and fine bubbles. The dosage is adjusted to achieve a balanced Brut profile, typically around 7 g/L, preserving vibrancy while rounding the palate.

Tasting Notes Appearance is pale straw gold with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose reveals radiant aromas of green apple, citrus zest, pear, white flowers and subtle brioche notes. On the palate it is fresh and balanced, with lively citrus and orchard fruit flavors, hints of peach and pear, delicate minerality and elegant brioche-nut nuances. The finish is crisp, clean and refreshing with fine mousse and lingering citrus character.

Food and Wine Pairing Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial pairs effortlessly with seafood such as oysters, sushi, caviar and shellfish, as well as light appetizers, fried foods, and soft cheeses. It also pairs well with poultry, creamy pasta dishes, and fruit-based desserts like lemon tart. Its vibrant acidity and fine bubbles make it a versatile companion for celebrations, toasts, entrees and desserts alike.

Service Methods and Temperatures Serve Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial chilled at approximately 6 – 8 °C in a tulip-shaped flute or white wine glass to concentrate the fine bubbles and aromatic intensity. Avoid serving too cold to allow aromatics to express fully. Pour gently to preserve mousse and serve immediately after chilling for optimal effervescence and freshness.

Storage and Aging Potential Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark environment with stable temperature (10-12 °C) and moderate humidity. Non-vintage Champagne is intended for near-term enjoyment; although properly stored bottles can be kept for several years, extended aging beyond recommended drinking windows generally yields limited benefit compared to vintage Champagnes. Once opened, enjoy within a few hours to retain bubbles.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used Approximately 30-40 % Pinot Noir, 30-40 % Pinot Meunier, 20-30 % Chardonnay, blended with reserve wines for consistency.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume) 12 %

Scores

Wine Spectator: 92 (vintage aggregate) 

Wine Enthusiast: 91–96 range in various reviews (house cuvée) 

James Suckling: 91 

The Somm Journal: 93