Champagne maker Moet & Chandon will release its 2004 vintage at the end of next year, following the recent release of the 2002.

Speaking to decanter.com, Moet & Chandon winemaker Axelle Araud said she expects the 2004 Champagne to be more "delicate", "subtle" and classical than its predecessor, thanks to a very good ripening season.

She confirmed that the 2005 will not be next on the Grand Vintage list, explaining to the publication: "2005 was a great vintage in Burgundy and Bordeaux but not Champagne – it rained too much and was not well balanced. It will be not be a Grand Vintage."

However, Ms Araud refused to disclose the composition of the 2004, which in 2002 was 51 per cent Chardonnay, 26 per cent Pinot Noir and 23 per cent Pinot Meunier.

One of the world's largest and oldest Champagne houses, Moet & Chandon holds a Royal Warrant to supply wine to the British royal family.