Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016 (Giftbox) (1x75cl)

The Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016 represents the 74th vintage release from this esteemed Champagne house, a testament to their enduring commitment to expressing the unique character of a specific year. Grand Vintage cuvées are crafted only when the Chef de Cave deems the harvest exceptional enough to warrant a distinct interpretation, moving beyond the house's iconic non-vintage style.

The 2016 growing season in Champagne presented its challenges, marked by a wet spring and early summer, followed by a remarkably warm and dry August and September. This climatic duality necessitated meticulous vineyard management, ultimately yielding grapes of excellent ripeness and vibrant acidity. The assemblage for the 2016 Grand Vintage is composed of 47% Pinot Noir, 39% Chardonnay, and 14% Meunier, a blend carefully selected to capture the essence of the vintage.

Aged for seven years on its lees in the house's cellars, followed by a low dosage of 5g/L (Extra Brut), this 75cl cuvée showcases a profound autolytic complexity and a refined structure. Presented in a sophisticated giftbox, it is an exemplary offering for the discerning collector or as a significant celebratory gesture.

Tasting notes

The Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016 presents a luminous pale gold hue, animated by a persistent stream of fine bubbles. The initial aromatic profile is one of remarkable freshness, revealing notes of green apple, ripe pear, and white peach, underpinned by delicate floral nuances of honeysuckle and acacia. As the wine opens, more complex layers emerge, including toasted brioche, almond paste, and a subtle minerality.

On the palate, the wine is precise and vibrant, with a beautifully integrated acidity that provides a lively tension. The texture is creamy and expansive, a result of its extended maturation on lees, which contributes to a harmonious balance. Flavours echo the nose, with a core of orchard fruit and citrus zest, complemented by hints of ginger and a saline minerality. The finish is long, clean, and remarkably elegant, leaving a lasting impression of finesse and depth.