Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label

This harmonious Champagne is appealing for its refreshing, aperitif style, yet theres greater focus than is typical for an aperitif to the notes of patisserie apple and pear, lemon parfait, chopped almond and oyster shell. Its vibrant acidity and lacy texture carry the profile on the mineral-driven finish. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Drink now.

(roughly 50% pinot noir, 30% chardonnay and 20% pinot meunier; Lot 14009913): Light gold. Musky orchard fruits and dried fig on the mineral-accented nose. Fleshy and broad on the palate, offering smoky pear and nectarine flavors and a hint of honey. Finishes on a gently spicy note, with very good cling and a touch of bitter lemon pith. Things have definitely begun to turn around for this bottling, which had been lagging behind the winery's vintage offerings for some time.

This best-selling Champagne is getting slightly drier. This bottling also has touches of attractive toastiness that suggests some bottle age. Final acidity and white fruits keep the freshness.