Moët & Chandon'sGrand Vintage 2015 illustrates the art of aging according to the Épernay-based house: that of a sunny, powerful, and sensual vintage, which the cellar master has chosen to allow to express itself in its maturity. Presented here in magnum format, ideal for slow and harmonious aging, this cuvée embodies the balance between amplitude, freshness, and depth.
The production of Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2015
Made from a blend dominated by Pinot Noir, this Grand Vintage aims to strike a balance between the sunny richness of the vintage and the mineral freshness characteristic of the Moët style. The aromatic objective: to express a generous, vinous champagne, but without heaviness, where ripe fruit combines with elegant tension.
- Pinot Noir (44%) brings structure, energy, and fruity fullness.
- Chardonnay (32%) brings brightness, purity, and mineral length.
- Meunier (24%) brings suppleness, white fruit, and a velvety texture.
The terroir
The grapes come mainly from the historic crus of the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne, and the Côte des Blancs. These terroirs, with their varied exposures, allow for a balance between power and freshness. The chalky soil brings tension, while the clay-limestone hillsides lend roundness and density. In 2015, the summer heat promoted uniform ripeness and produced full-bodied wines with well-channeled energy.
Vinification
Each grape variety is vinified separately in order to preserve its typical characteristics.Malolactic fermentation is carried out to soften the acidity. Disgorging after a long aging on lees, Extra Brut dosage at 5 g/L to reveal the purity of the vintage without excessive roundness. The result: a full-bodied, structured and luminous champagne.
The 2015 vintage
A sunny and concentrated vintage, 2015 enjoyed a hot, dry summer, producing grapes of exceptional ripeness. On the chalky terroirs, the chalk regulated the water, preserving freshness and balance. The particularly expressive Pinot Noir gained in density and notes of candied red fruits, while the Chardonnay retained a fine tension. This vintage combines power and refinement: a great wine with immediate expression and aging potential.
Tasting notes
Color
Deep gold with amber highlights. Fine, regular bubbles. Sustained brilliance, typical of a sunny vintage.
Nose
Notes of dried apricot, toasted hazelnut, and ripe mirabelle plum. After aeration, nuances of orange blossom, honey, and warm chalk. Complexity and fullness.
Palate
Full-bodied and fruity attack. Caressing, salty and persistent texture. The Pinot Noir gives it structure, while the Chardonnay lengthens the finish. Long finish with notes of almond and candied citrus.
Food pairing
This full-bodied, finely crafted 2015 Grand Vintage pairs well with gently cooked dishes with character: noble fish, white meats, or buttered shellfish. The richness of the vintage dialogues with salty and slightly toasted flavors.
- Comté cheese gougères
- Salmon tartare
- Crab rillettes
- Pan-fried scallops
- Roasted free-range chicken
- Turbot with white butter sauce
- Honey-glazed apple
- Pear and almond tart
- Roasted peach with verbena
Storage and serving
Storing this magnum
Store the magnum horizontally at 10–11°C in a stable, dark cellar. The large format promotes slow, harmonious development: prolonged storage will refine the texture and develop honeyed and brioche notes without losing the freshness of the fruit.
Aging potential
Optimal window: 2025–2040. From 2025 to 2030, the wine offers vibrant fruit and saline tension. From 2031 to 2037, toasted, hazelnut, and beeswax notes appear. Beyond 2038, the champagne gains a rich depth while maintaining a straightforward structure. The magnum amplifies the wine's longevity.
Serving
Serve at 10–11°C in a large tulip glass. Open 10 minutes before serving to release the aromas of ripe citrus and warm bread. Pour gently to preserve the finesse of the mousse. A champagne to be savored slowly to appreciate its full complexity.
