The 2013 vintage of Moët & Chandon’s Grand Vintage is somewhat unique. Now in its 75th iteration after being created in 1842, each Grand Vintage cuvée is composed of a selection of the vintage’s most remarkable wines, chosen by the cellar master for their ability to communicate the unique nature of the vintage.

While 2013 was a challenging year that has become famous for Chardonnay, the 2013 Grand Vintage cuvée focusses on Pinot Noir. Benoît Gouez, chef de cave at Moët & Chandon, found select parcels of Pinot Noir to be complex and uniquely characterful but lacking a little power owing to the challenging weather at the end of the vintage. “We boldly decided to magnify the carefully chosen Pinot Noirs, which demonstrated an outstanding chiselled structure,” Gouez explained. “That is why Grand Vintage 2013 has nearly equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.”

With an assemblage of 41% Chardonnay, 38% Pinot Noir and 21% Meunier, 2013 Grand Vintage shows great maturity and energy. Ripe nectarines, roasted chestnuts and honey lead to a palate with vibrant, powerful structure and a delightful vivacity. Without doubt, 2013 presented a challenge to the vignerons of Champagne but in the 2013 vintage of Moët & Chandon’s Grand Vintage, it is captured and refined to produce a unique and brilliant Champagne.