2012 Veuve Clicquot Vintage Brut

There’s a serious structure behind the considerable richness of this bold champagne. A wide range of dried-fruit aromas, but also some mint and sage freshness. Complex texture at the long, chalky finish. 12% of the cuvée is fermented in barrel. 60% pinot noir, 30% chardonnay and 10% pinot meunier, all from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. Drink or hold.

The 2012 Brut Vintage is a tasty, straightforward Champagne to drink now and over the next handful of years. Orchard fruit, baked apple tart, pastry, dried flowers and chamomile all grace this open-knit, easygoing Champagne.