Vintage by Veuve Clicquot from Champagne, France - regions. A blend of about twenty Premiers and Grands Crus, the Vintage has the power of Pinot Noir, balanced by the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay. It is the perfect expression of the House style, proving that champagne can be a great wine and, as such, makes a perfect accompaniment for many dishes, developing its qualities as the years go by. It goes well with spiny lobster prawns, scallops and sea fish as well as poultry and white meat. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VINTAGE: A mild winter led to an early bud-break, and a hot month of May produced premature flowering. The first part of Summer had mixed weather, with alternating rain and hail interspersed with drier spells, and low temperatures for the season. The second, however, took on a southern accent, with a drought near to resembling a heat wave. The rain which preceded the harvests encouraged the grapes to ripen and produce a large and qualitative harvest. Components: The 1999 Vintage Reserve is comprided of 21 crus only, which are either Grands or Premiers Crus, from the Montagne de Reims, Grande Vallee de la Marne and Cote des Blanc areas. 55% Pinot Noir 12% Pinot Meunier 33% Chardonnay Pretty bouquet of orange peel, freshly buttered bread and light malt. Great balance and finesse with tart citrus and caramel flavors, and soft acid backing. Foamy notes in the close with a touch of spicy ginger in this well-integrated wine. -Wine News
