1976 Veuve Clicquot la Grande Dame

Budding was early (mid April) and so was flowering – the earliest we had ever seen and which only lasted one week – again a record. The very dry and warm conditions were exceptional and resulted in a drought but this had little impact on the vines, which were able to reach water stored in the chalky soil. The harvest occurred only 84 days after the flowering and for the very first time at the end of August/beginning of September. Maturity was excellent (between 10 to12 g/l) and the grapes arrived at the winery in excellent condition. Despite these rare and remarkable conditions, the balance between sugar and acidity was good and there was no lack of freshness. Dosage 8 g/l, disgorged 1992. Similar colour to the 1989 – surprisingly pale for its age. More reductive style (smoke and light toasty char) than the younger vintages tasted in this line up but still gloriously honeyed and toasty, grilled almonds, and with some quince tartness of fruit. Opens up to a light coffee and vanilla note. Super rich and lightly charred toast on the palate. Lime and honey. Intense, still has a light mousse and has terrific freshness. Incredibly youthful. More Pinot Noir in this wine (not sure exactly how much) and this seems to have given it longevity. Utterly mouth-watering and salty on the finish and a fresh toasty length. (JH)