Veuve Cliquot Yellow Label is a perfect example of harmony between delicacy and power. Dominated by Pinot Noir, this wine has a firm structure, rounded with a touch of Pinot Meunier. Nearly a third of Chardonnay gives it the elegance and finesse needed for perfect balance. A blend of fifty crus, mainly Grands and Premiers Crus. Consistent quality due to 25 to 35% of reserve wines.

Rating

There’s plenty of finesse in this smooth-textured Champagne, whose flavors evoke apricot, peach, vanilla pastry and mineral. Racy, with snappy acidity providing energy and driving the flavors to a long conclusion. Drink now through 2012. –BS Wine Enthusiast 89 points The standard-bearer, which, for many people, defines the classic taste of Champagne. Rich, round, lemony fruit fills the mouth, and there is a refreshing, lightly bitter, yeasty finish of citrus rind. P.G.