The house's 1998 La Grande Dame reveals notable clarity and precision. This focused, poised wine emerges from the glass with well-articulated flowers, pears, smoke, crisp apples and minerals in a medium-bodied style. The wine appears to have enough freshness and sheer depth to support another decade or so of aging. La Grand Dame represents a significant step up from the estate's other wines. In 1998 La Grande Dame is 64% Pinot Noir (Ay, Verzenay, Verzy, Ambonnay and Bouzy) and 36% Chardonnay (Avize, Oger, Mesnil-sur-Oger). This is Lot 510 2572, disgorged between December, 2006 and January, 2007. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018.
Veuve Cliquot Ponsardin is one of Champagne's best known brands thanks to the success of its "yellow label" non-vintage wine and the tete de cuvee La Grande Dame.- Wine Advocate # 180 Dec 2008