Veuve Cliquot-Ponsardin Brut vintage 1993 OC

Tasting note: Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Brut Vintage 1993

Appearance:
Brilliant gold with amber-coloured reflections, typical of mature champagnes. The perlage is fine and restrained, almost still, but isolated, delicate bubbles testify to the lively structure beneath the surface. The wine shows slight edge lightening, an indication of its more than 30 years of ageing.

Nose:
A complex, ripe bouquet with dominant tertiary aromas: buttered brioche, toasted almonds and honeycomb meet notes of dried apricots, candied citrus and a subtle smokiness. Underneath, earthy nuances of mushroom, damp chalk and a hint of old wooden furniture resonate. A hint of ripe quince and saffron adds exotic depth.

Palate:
The texture is creamy and velvety, carried by an elegantly integrated acidity that gives the wine freshness despite its age. On the palate, aromas of baked apple, caramelised lemon zest and marzipan unfold, accompanied by a spicy underlay (ginger, white pepper). The mineral character - typical of the limestone soils of the Côte des Blancs - creates tension. The tannins (rare in Champagne) are subtly noticeable, presumably from the Pinot Noir component.

Finish:
Long-lasting and multi-layered, with a finish of roasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate and a salty, mineral note. The final bitterness is reminiscent of grapefruit, harmoniously rounded off by a mild sweetness of honeydew melon.

Overall impression:
The Veuve Clicquot Brut Vintage 1993 is a fascinating example of the ageing potential of classic champagnes. Despite the difficult vintage (cool weather, short ripening period), it impresses with its balance between ripe opulence and mineral austerity. The Pinot Noir dominance (estimated at 60%) lends structure, while the Chardonnay influence preserves elegance. The wine is at the peak of its development - further ageing could reduce the remaining freshness.

Serving suggestion:
At 10-12°C with mature mountain cheese, lobster with saffron sauce or as a meditative finale to a meal. A champagne for connoisseurs that celebrates the art of ageing - perfect for historic occasions or as a tribute to the era of the 1990s.