Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec is perhaps the House’'s most “classical“ champagne; from the close of the last century through to the early 1900s, there was a definitive preference for sweeter champagnes. As with all blends of Veuve Clicquot, the Demi-Sec is based on a preponderance of Pinot Noir, which gives Champagne its fundamental structure. The desire for very distinct fruit flavors in the blend indicated a higher level of Pinot Meunier than would be found in, for example, Yellow Label. Chardonnay completes the blend, contributing its special freshness and delicacy.

No fewer than 50 individual wines make up this cuvee. The traditional proportions for Demi-Sec are: •40 to 45% Pinot Noir •30 to 35% Pinot Meunier •20 to 25% Chardonnay. The inclusion of 20 to 30 % of reserve wines ensures the consistency of the Veuve Clicquot style. These wines are kept apart, each one cellared individually, as befits its origin and age. The level of dosage - 45 g/l decided at the moment of disgorgement - results in a sweeter balance of flavors, while preserving the wine’s inherent freshness.

TASTING NOTES

A fine, even effervescence greets the eye, the wine being a beautiful yellow with deep golden highlights.

On the nose, it is rich in the scents of ripe fruit (candied fruits, berry liquor), with hints of toasts and brioche.

In the mouth, the wine displays both roundness and mellowness, combined with a delightful freshness due to its gentle acidity. The aromas of ripe fruit are very noticeable.

PAIRING

With its equilibrium tending towards sweetness and fruited flavors, Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec goes particularly well with those desserts which have a fruit base: pear tarts, gratin aux agrumes, charlotte aux apricots. But equally, îles flottantes, crêpes Suzette, crème brûlee, nougat glace, or France’s traditional Twelfth Night cake, are perfect partners for this great Champagne.

After additional cellaring (two to three years, or even more in the right conditions), Demi-Sec develops yet richer notes of praline or toasts. It is then ideal with caramel or praline-based desserts: Paris-Brest, tarte Tatin, pears with caramel, etc. Do not hesitate to serve Demi-Sec from a carafe, as they did in Madame Clicquot’s time.

A few minutes in a previously chilled carafe will allow the wine to show off its rounded flavor, and all the splendor of its golden hue.