Veuve Clicquot
La Grande Dame
About
Regions
Champagne
History
Founded in Reims in 1772 by Philippe Clicquot. Transformed by his daughter-in-law Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin after the death of her husband François in 1805, who took over the business at age 27 — extraordinary for a woman in commerce at the time. In 1816, Barbe-Nicole and cellar master Antoine Müller developed the remuage (riddling) process, which transformed Champagne production and remains the foundation of the méthode champenoise. She pioneered international distribution, sending a secret shipment through the blockade to Russia in 1814. Today part of the LVMH group, producing approximately 19–22 million bottles annually. Cellars extend 24 kilometres beneath Reims.
Philosophy
Consistency through masterful blending. The Yellow Label incorporates 25–40% reserve wines from a multi-vintage library to maintain house style across every release. Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims provides the backbone; Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs adds finesse; Pinot Meunier from the Vallée de la Marne adds roundness. La Grande Dame is produced only in exceptional vintages from the finest parcels.
Winemaking
Winemaker: Didier Mariotti (Chef de Cave)