Frequently Asked Questions
Celebrate the artistry and elegance of Veuve Clicquot's **La Grande Dame Yayoi Kusama Edition**, a luxurious champagne that fuses the house's renowned craftsmanship with the vibrant creativity of iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Paying homage to Madame Clicquot, known as "The Grand Dame of Champagne," this collectible bottle is adorned with Kusama's signature polka dots and floral motifs, symbolizing vitality and celebration. Inside, the 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay blend from Grand Cru vineyards offers an extraordinary sensory experience, featuring floral notes of jasmine and acacia, underpinned by layers of pear, citrus, and subtle minerality. This exquisite cuvée, with its silky texture and elegant depth, is a perfect gift or centerpiece for any celebration, embodying both refined taste and artistic vibrancy.
Process & Profile
La Grande Dame 2012 is an exceptional vintage born from a challenging yet rewarding harvest year. Composed of 90% Pinot Noir from Veuve Clicquot's prized Grand Cru vineyards and 10% Chardonnay, this champagne epitomizes the house's dedication to Pinot Noir, celebrated for its complexity and finesse. The wine underwent meticulous aging for over seven years in the house's chalk cellars, resulting in a dosage of 6 g/L and a champagne with immense precision and elegance. The vintage reflects the warm, sunny conditions of 2012, with a distinctive mineral profile drawn from the chalky soils of the Champagne region. The collaboration with Yayoi Kusama adds artistry to the packaging, featuring her iconic polka dots and blooming flowers that symbolize optimism and life.Tasting Notes
The Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2012 offers vibrant and multilayered aromas and flavors:- Nose: The bouquet unfolds delicately with white floral notes, including jasmine and honeysuckle. As it evolves, fruitier nuances of pear, apple, and peach emerge, joined by subtle notes of fresh almonds and frangipane.
- Palate: In the mouth, layers of dried apricot, hazelnut, honey, and sugar candy create complexity. A silky texture, balanced by vibrant minerality and subtle smoky undertones, defines its character.
- Color: A light gold hue with radiant highlights betrays the Pinot Noir dominance in its blend.
What Makes It Special
- Exclusive Vintage: Produced only in excellent vintages, La Grande Dame 2012 is a rare and refined expression of Veuve Clicquot's craft.
- Yayoi Kusama Design: The bottle and case feature Kusama's signature polka dots, representing champagne bubbles, and a vibrant flower evoking energy and celebration.
- Pinot Noir Excellence: With 90% Pinot Noir from historical Grand Crus like Ambonnay, Verzy, and Aÿ, it showcases the grape's depth and versatility.
- Aging Potential: Elegantly structured and youthful, this champagne promises to develop beautifully over the next decade.
How to Enjoy
La Grande Dame 2012 is best served between 10-12°C to fully appreciate its complexity. This cuvée pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes:- Appetizers: Grilled seafood, oysters, or fresh vegetables.
- Mains: Delicate meats like quail or dishes incorporating truffle-infused sauces.
- Vegetarian Cuisine: Garden-fresh produce cooked with precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Yayoi Kusama edition unique?
This limited-edition Champagne celebrates the collaboration between Veuve Clicquot and renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. The 2012 vintage bottle and gift box feature Kusama's signature polka dots and floral motifs, symbolizing Champagne bubbles and optimism. It pays tribute to Madame Clicquot, the "Grande Dame of Champagne," and embodies the Maison's commitment to Pinot Noir dominance and innovative craftsmanship.
What are the tasting notes for La Grande Dame 2012?
The Champagne opens with aromas of white flowers like jasmine and honeysuckle, evolving into fruits such as pear, apple, and peach. On the palate, it reveals flavors of dried apricots, roasted hazelnuts, honey, and subtle minerality, with a silky texture and refined depth.
What is the blend composition of La Grande Dame 2012?
La Grande Dame 2012 is made from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay, sourced from the finest Grand Cru vineyards like Aÿ, Bouzy, and Avize. This high percentage of Pinot Noir underscores Madame Clicquot's belief in its potential to create exceptional Champagnes.
Who is Yayoi Kusama, and why was she chosen for this collaboration?
Yayoi Kusama is a celebrated Japanese artist known for her iconic polka-dot patterns and vibrant art. She was chosen for this collaboration to reflect optimism and creativity, values shared with Veuve Clicquot. Her designs emphasize the joyful essence of Champagne and Madame Clicquot's innovative legacy.
What food pairs best with Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2012?
This Champagne pairs beautifully with dishes centered around seasonal vegetables, herbs, and fruits. It also complements seafood like skate wing, quail, or even sea urchin, offering versatility due to its complex aromatic palette and minerality.
What is the optimal serving temperature for La Grande Dame 2012?
For the best experience, serve the Champagne at a temperature between 10°C and 12°C (50°F to 54°F) to fully appreciate its intricate flavors and aromas.
Does this Champagne have aging potential?
Yes, La Grande Dame 2012 has an excellent aging potential of up to 15 years, with its flavors and complexity developing further over time.
What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) of La Grande Dame 2012?
The ABV of this Champagne is 12.5%, aligning with its elegant and balanced profile.
Is this edition a good gift option?
Absolutely. The limited-edition design, the artistic collaboration with Yayoi Kusama, and the prestige of La Grande Dame make it an exceptional gift for Champagne lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
What is the history behind La Grande Dame Champagne?
La Grande Dame was introduced in 1972 to honor Madame Clicquot's vision and innovation in the Champagne industry. It is crafted exclusively from Grand Cru vineyards, representing the Maison's highest standards of quality and Madame Clicquot's pioneering spirit.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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