On the occasion of Moët & Chandon's 280th anniversary, the house releases a rare, multi-vintage prestige cuvée, Collection Impériale Creation No. 1.
It is the first of a series of 'cuvées d'exception' that will be released in the run-up to Moët & Chandon's 300th anniversary in 2043. It offers a rare opportunity for those who truly love champagne to add a historic release to their collection.
Creation no. 1 is a complex and flavorful Champagne that will continue to develop gracefully. Made from seven different vintages aged in three different ways. We begin with the fresh 2013 Grand Vintage (aged in stainless steel tanks), which is complemented by the refined 2012, powerful 2010, tense 2008, full-bodied 2006 and lively 2000 vintages (all aged in oak barrels), then finished with the elegant 2004 vintage, which has been bottled on the lees after its second fermentation.
The tasting experience:
The fragrance: Collection Impériale Création No. 1 is initially reserved, but gradually reveals mineral dry notes such as licorice root, mocha and toast. As it unfolds, there are secondary aromas of madeleines, fresh hazelnuts, vanilla and then luscious fruit accompanied by hints of dried figs and Mirabelle plums.
In the taste, the maturity shines through. Enveloping the senses with an aromatic sweetness that embraces its creamy and delicate effervescence, the champagne then develops into an interplay of freshness and bitterness. The finish lingers on notes of smoke and licorice, leaving a mouth-watering impression of freshness.
Technical information:
Vineyards: Predominantly Grand & Premier Crus
Grape varieties: 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay & 20% Meunier
Reserve wines: 2012, 2010, 2008, 2006, 2004 and 2000
Base year: 2013
Aged on the yeast residues for 8 years
Disgorged in August 2022
Dosage: 0 g/l
Aged in oak barrels: 42.5%
Stored in stainless steel tanks: 42.5%
Aged in bottle: 15%
Cork: Mytik Diam Technological
Drinking fashion now and to +2040
Moët & Chandon's cellar master Benoît Gouez calls it his biggest Champagne to date.