1996 Veuve Clicquot la Grande Dame
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Tasting notes
There’s not a lot of mistaking the Veuve Clicquot style here! Full-bodied, weighty, toasty, all cut with a plentiful supply of acidity. Definitely more about heft than elegance. Nutty, orange zest. Not a shrinking violet! (AWH)
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Robert Parker
Robert Parker
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Musty, mature nose. Powerful, rounded, smooth, super balance – clinically precise. Seems to me that this isn’t the freshest of bottles though. (RH)
Deep gold. Almost oxidised nose. I think there would be complaints about this [particular bottle if it were served inflight]. A take-no-prisoners style of wine that would appeal mainly to people who had already convinced themselves they loved this particular brand. Very chunky. Quite an astringent finish. Not enough refreshment value. Though the finish is certainly impressive – it goes on and on. This may improve with time but not soon enough for BA’s needs. (JR)
Tightly-packed with notes of citrus oil, orange rind, white peach, honeysuckle, and brioche, the medium to full-bodied 1996 La Grande Dame Brut should age well for 15-20 years. Crisp, fresh, and backward, it is another brilliant example from the exquisite 1996 vintage. Importer: Veuve Clicquot Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 888-7551. Reviewed by RMP