Veuve Clicquot unveils 2018 La Grande Dame vintage focused on Pinot Noir excellence

Veuve Clicquot has officially released the 2018 vintage of La Grande Dame, its prestigious cuvée that pays tribute to Madame Clicquot, the pioneering figure who helped shape the global reputation of the Champagne house. The new release is being presented as a refined expression of Pinot Noir, a grape variety that has long been central to the identity and winemaking philosophy of Veuve Clicquot.

The 2018 vintage is the 25th edition of La Grande Dame, first introduced in 1972 with the 1962 harvest to mark the bicentennial of the Maison. This latest release is composed of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay, sourced primarily from historic Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims, an area known for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir in Champagne.

The year 2018 brought favorable weather conditions for grape growing in the region. After a wet winter, a warm and sunny summer followed, resulting in a generous and high-quality harvest. These conditions allowed Pinot Noir grapes to reach near-perfect ripeness, offering both aromatic complexity and freshness. According to the house, only vintages with exceptional grape quality are selected for La Grande Dame.

In terms of tasting profile, La Grande Dame 2018 presents citrus aromas such as lemon, lime, and yuzu on the nose, along with white fruit and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it shows a smooth texture and marked minerality, reflecting both structure and elegance.

The launch also includes a refreshed visual identity for La Grande Dame. The updated design highlights Veuve Clicquot’s signature yellow color, which symbolizes optimism and joy. The packaging has been redesigned with sustainability in mind; the gift box now includes 60% hemp fiber, chosen for its low environmental impact and carbon conversion efficiency.

This release continues Veuve Clicquot’s long-standing commitment to Pinot Noir, a grape that Madame Clicquot herself believed was essential for crafting wines with unmatched freshness and elegance. Her vision led her to acquire ten of the twelve key vineyard plots that still form the backbone of Veuve Clicquot’s production today.

La Grande Dame 2018 is now available at select retailers and through Veuve Clicquot’s distribution channels. The suggested retail price starts at €220.