Veuve Clicquot Vintage Brut 2008 is the Champagne house's 65th Vintage declaration since its first in 1810, and only the third in the decade following the 2002 and 2004 Vintages. It is the first vintage release from the house to be crafted by Cellar Master Dominique Demarville since joining the house in 2006, and is noteworthy as the first Vintage since the 1960s to use wooden fermentation and ageing vessels in the production of a portion of the wines used. The Vintage was disgorged in 2015 after six years maturation on lees and a further year of ageing in Veuve Clicquot's cellars. Veuve Clicquot Vintage Brut 2008 has been described as reminiscent of the great vintages of 1995 and 1985. A brilliant gold colour with a persistent and remarkable effervescence. The bouquet has delicate hints of toasted notes, with lightly candied citrus fruit and dried apricots. A bold, lively, pure flavour transforming into a powerful, structured palate elegantly reflecting the minerality of the chalky terroir. The fruitiness of the major Pinot Noir component resonates beautifully with the fresh citrus aromas, highlighted by the light toasted notes in the finish. The 2008 Vintage has the potential for ageing until at least 2030, developing richness and complexity over time. |