Personal advice
The 2018 vintage of La Grande Dame already presents itself remarkably accessible, fruit-forward and harmonious today. Since 2012 the house style has noticeably changed — moving away from the often oxidative notes of the past toward more freshness and fruit. By comparison, the 2008 vintage still stands fully in the classic Veuve Clicquot tradition: less fruit, but more strongly marked by nutty, ripe aromas.
For the 2018 the lees aging was shortened to five years, contributing to its youthful freshness and elegance. The blend remains traditional: 90% Pinot Noir from the Grand Crus Ambonnay, Aÿ, Bouzy, Verzenay, Verzy, and 10% Chardonnay from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger.
2018 was a sun-rich vintage, yet without extreme heat waves or pronounced drought stress. Grape ripening therefore proceeded evenly and the harvest began unusually early — from 20 August. A decisive advantage: nights in August remained cool, preserving a balanced acidity level. While 2018 is not a year with the taut, racy acidity of 2008, its overall quality level is clearly above that of the low-acid 2015.
The combination of ripe fruit, balanced acidity and structural finesse gives the wines of this vintage charm and early accessibility — although some question marks remain regarding long-term ageing potential.
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin Cellar