Had this last night, and really enjoyed it. I’m slightly nervous about posting this because most winewriters like to bash the big Champagne houses such as Moet and VC. But remember: non-vintage blends change every year, and they could change for the better. This bottle certainly tasted good.
I’m not saying that with £30 in your pocket, you couldn’t find a better fizz. Just that this isn’t the evil concoction that some would have you believe it is.
Champagne Veuve Clicquot NV
Very fresh and lively with taut citrus fruit and subtle toastiness. Nice precision and balance with a hint of grapefruit pith bitterness on the finish. This is quite convincing. Very fine. 90/100
Hey Jamie!
What do you mean with “non-vintage blends change every year, and they could change for the better”.
As far as I know the the whole point of NV champagnes is to preserve a house style.
The Widow is my go to NV.
Apparently even Möet vintage is supposed to be good (for 2002 at least). 1990 was the last goodie.
Not a big fan of the VC style myself (not that I’d turn down a glass!), but accept that’s more of a subjective judgement.
VC is easily the bubbles brand that has declined the most over the past 2 decades. It used to be as reliable as Pol Roger or Bolly. No longer the case. I’ve even found the Grande Dame rather poor.
It is very nice but only a label junkie would say it is better than Tesco premier cru.