Enjoy a tasty tipple this month with these perfect Champagne recommendations
Before we head into autumn, enjoy the last of the glorious sunshine with some special Champagnes to make the most of your summer sipping.
VEUVE CLICQUOT YELLOW LABEL BRUT
An iconic Champagne, this house was founded by François Clicquot but really came into popularity after Madame Clicquot, his wife, took over the reins upon his death in 1805. A woman ahead of her time, Madame Clicquot brought passion to the house in a time when women were excluded from the business world, creating Champagne known for its excellence and quality. We love the Yellow Label, which is Veuve Clicquot’s signature, as it signifies the brand’s style and impeccable winemaking credentials.
Tasting notes
Veuve Cliquot Yellow Label Brut is a blend of the very best crus from the house, with pinot noir the dominant grape followed by chardonnay and a touch of meunier. Golden yellow and bright in the glass, this wine has tiny bubbles that create wonderful effervescence. On the nose, this Champagne is deliciously toasty, reminiscent of brioche, alongside hints of vanilla, both of which are a result of the ageing process this wine undergoes. You will also notice light bursts of fruit like peach and pear, as well as raisin and plum. On the palate, Yellow Label Brut is fresh and full-bodied, with nice acidity and minerality. Slightly sweet, this Champagne offers delicate orange blossom notes as well as hints of ripe fruits.
Drink it with
Sweet and firm seafood, aged cheeses, fresh pasta, poultry, ripe berries
Recipe recommendations
Think super summery when sipping this Champagne. Scallops seared in lots of butter then served with crispy pancetta and sweet peas would be a delicious starter, but scallop ceviche would also work wonderfully. Tuna or salmon tartare with crispy crackers and a lemon aioli would also be delicious.
Aside from seafood, smoked duck is a great accompaniment here – try it in a salad with ripe plums. Parmesan works very well with Yellow Label Brut, so a carbonara would be delicious, as would an asparagus risotto finished with a generous sprinkle of cheese. If you want to keep it casual, try this Champagne with fried chicken for a fun pairing – it’s the perfect mix of elegant and casual.
KRUG GRANDE CUVÉE
Established in 1843 by Joseph Krug, this sparkler is produced in Reims with the aim of creating the very best Champagne, regardless of annual variations in the climate. Full of character and individuality, Krug Grande Cuvée is the essence of pleasure itself. Best served between 9C and 12C, this is ideal for summer sipping.
Tasting notes
This Champagne really is emblematic of the house and its elegant style. Made with three classic grapes – chardonnay, pinot meunier, and pinot noir – Krug Grande Cuvée is distinguished by its deep golden colour and fine, vivacious bubbles. On the nose, it is wonderfully floral with notes of dried fruit, citrus and buttery toast. These inviting aromas welcome a medium to full-bodied wine that’s deliciously delicate on the palate. You’ll find serious freshness alongside notes of hazelnut and almond, as well as toasty brioche, honey, and marmalade.
Drink it with
Fresh seafood, mild curries, root vegetables, earthy cheese
Recipe recommendations
This is another luxury Champagne that works incredibly well with fried food – fish and chips anyone? Fried chicken in a lightly spiced batter would also be delicious here, perhaps with a mayonnaise or yoghurt-based dipping sauce. While seafood is always great with sparklers, we love grilled prawns with Krug Grande Cuvée. Try making a lemon and garlic butter to brush over them while cooking, then enjoy with crusty bread for a delicious al fresco feast. In terms of curry, butter chicken would be a perfect pairing, as would a Goan seafood curry with aromatic rice. Whole roasted cauliflower drenched in a spicy butter would be perfect for vegetarian diners as would baked Camembert drizzled with honey and thyme, then served with fresh bread for dipping.
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut (€64.45) and Krug Grande Cuvée (€258.70) are available from the Moët Hennessy Champagne Destination at Brown Thomas Dublin and leading independent off licenses nationwide, including O’Brien’s, Waterford Wines and On The Grapevine.
Brought to you in partnership with Moët Hennessy
