2012 Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame Rose, Bottle (750ml)

DR96 The 2012 vintage of Veuve Clicquot's top rosé is a blend from eight crus, including 13% red wine from the Clos Colin vineyard in Bouzy. Tasted in magnum it has a pretty salmon pink colour with a breezy ozone freshness to the nose. Creamy, elegant and delicate, but with tremendous presence and a fine seam of persistent, nervy acidity. Fine, detailed red berry and cherry fruit plays off against minerality and a rich texture, resulting in lovely balance and finesse now – but it will certainly continue to evolve with time in the cellar.

JD95 Pouring an electric pink color, the 2012 Champagne La Grande Dame Rose is showing very well at this stage, offering expressive notes of apricots, rosy perfume, wild raspberries, and fresh baked pastry. The palate takes on notable tension, with a chalky texture, a refined and zesty mousse, and a citrus-tinged finish. Refreshing and dry, it should have a good deal of longevity ahead. Drink 2025-2040. Disgorged in February 2021.