Introduction
Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Champagne 2016 is a remarkable testament to the art of Champagne, offering a unique expression of a single, exceptional year. As one of the world’s most iconic Champagne houses, Moët & Chandon crafts its Grand Vintage only in years of outstanding harvests, allowing the individual character of the vintage to truly shine through. Unlike the house’s non-vintage Brut Imperial, the Grand Vintage is a rare opportunity to experience the pure, unadulterated essence of a specific growing season, reflecting the Cellar Master’s freedom to select and blend the finest grapes. The 2016 vintage in Champagne, despite initial challenges, ultimately yielded grapes of excellent quality, particularly for Pinot Noir, contributing to a Champagne of distinctive freshness, vitality, and considerable aging potential, poised to reveal further complexities over time.
Character Description
The Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Champagne 2016 displays a radiant, pale gold hue with fine, persistent bubbles, hinting at its vitality and elegance. It offers an intensely aromatic and evolving bouquet of fresh white flowers, green apple, and crisp pear, elegantly interwoven with notes of toasted brioche, almond, subtle marzipan, and a delicate mineral chalkiness. As it opens, hints of ripe citrus and light pastry emerge, reflecting its maturation. On the palate, it delivers a medium-bodied and wonderfully vibrant texture, with flavors of orchard fruit, lemon zest, and a savory, toasted richness that mirror the nose. It’s supported by a bright, refreshing acidity that provides precision and a long, expansive finish, showcasing layers of complexity and a delightful tension. The finish is persistent, incredibly clean, and exceptionally balanced, leaving a lingering impression of chalky minerality and refined elegance.
Perfect Pairings
This elegant and complex Grand Vintage Champagne is an exceptional partner for a wide range of sophisticated culinary experiences. It pairs beautifully with fresh seafood like oysters, scallops, or grilled white fish. Its richness and acidity also make it an ideal accompaniment to light poultry dishes, creamy risottos, and delicate canapés. Consider it with truffle-infused dishes, aged Parmesan cheese, or even subtle charcuterie. Its versatility also makes it a superb choice as a celebratory aperitif, enhancing special occasions and making any moment feel grand. Serving it well-chilled will allow its intricate aromatics and vibrant mousse to shine.
About the Winery
Moët & Chandon, founded in 1743, is arguably the most recognizable and influential Champagne house in the world, synonymous with celebration and luxury. With vast vineyard holdings across Champagne’s finest crus and unparalleled cellars stretching for miles beneath Épernay, they have consistently upheld a legacy of quality and innovation. The house’s philosophy centers on crafting Champagnes that embody consistency, elegance, and distinctiveness. The Grand Vintage collection is a testament to their commitment to showcasing the individuality of exceptional years, allowing their Cellar Master creative freedom to compose a unique blend that reflects the vintage’s singular character. This dedication to both tradition and the pursuit of excellence has solidified Moët & Chandon’s position as a global icon of Champagne.
