Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot is a producer that has always led the way in Champagne. From 1805, they were helmed by one of the first businesswomen of modern times, Madame Clicquot, the audaciously innovative woman known as la Grande Dame of Champagne.

First launched in 1972 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the estate, the estate's prestige cuvéé Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2012 is another huge success from this iconic estate.

Scoring 96 points from Decanter's Simon Field MW, 96 points from the Wine Enthusiast, 95 points from the Wine Spectator and 17.5/20 from Jancis Robinson MW, this is 'one of the more successful outings for this outstanding cuvée' (DC).

Made from a exclusive blend of six of the House's eight historic Grand Cru vineyards, the 2012 is a blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. It does not present itself in the way that would be expected from such a Pinot dominated Champagne. Tight and structured instead floral, it is more 'transparent, fresh and rewarding' than any Grande Dame Robinson has tasted before.

How it is so 'subtle in its intensity' can be attributed to Chef de Caves Dominique and Didier focusing on allowing their cooler Pinot Noir sites to shine through but still making sure 'all the pieces seamlessly knit into an elegant whole' (WS). Drinking beautifully now with 9 years of age, Fields gives this a drinking window up to 2036.

Released at £605 per case IB, the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2012 looks great value when compared against the prestige cuvées of most the other Grande Marque Champagne houses. With a special label designed by famed Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, this will go beautifully in any Champagne lover's collection.