Moët & Chandon Impérial NV

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1743 by Claude Moët in Épernay, Moët & Chandon is the world’s leading Champagne house and a flagship of LVMH  . Introduced in the 1860s, Impérial is its iconic non‑vintage cuvée, blending tradition and precision across 1,190 ha of Grand and Premier Cru vineyards and producing millions of bottles annually  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Under Cellar Master Benoît Gouez, a tasting committee selects and assembles over 100 base and reserve wines. The goal is to express bright fruit, creamy texture, and refined elegance. With larger formats like Jeroboam, maturation is extended to enhance mousse finesse and structure  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from Champagne’s Grand and Premier Cru plots: Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims, Pinot Meunier from Vallée de la Marne, and Chardonnay from Côte des Blancs. Chalk soils and maritime influence with diurnal swings yield vibrant acidity, minerality, and varietal clarity ().

Vinification & Aging Methods

Parcels are fermented in stainless steel, with 5–10% aged in oak. The cuvée integrates 20–30% reserve wines. Secondary in-bottle fermentation is followed by ≥24 months lees aging. Dosage of ~9–10 g/L balances freshness and richness  .

Tasting notes

Golden straw with green highlights; aromas of green apple, citrus blossom, brioche, pear, and fresh nuts. On the palate it is creamy yet crisp, showing white peach, salted almond, subtle toast, and a precise, mineral-tinged finish  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Perfect as an aperitif; pairs with oysters, crab, lobster, sushi, grilled fish, poultry, cream-based dishes, and soft cheeses such as mozzarella or Brie ().

Service Methods and Temperatures

Chill to 8–10 °C and serve in tulip or white-wine glasses to concentrate aromatics and maintain mousse. Gentle swirl is sufficient; no decanting needed ().

Storage and Aging Potential

Cellared at 9–12 °C with 70–80% humidity and no light, delivers optimal quality for 5–8 years, with aging bringing honey, brioche, nut, and pastry notes while preserving structure  .

Grape Varietals & percentage used

 

• Pinot Noir: 30–40 %

• Pinot Meunier: 30–40 %

• Chardonnay: 20–30 %

  Includes 20–30 % reserve wines  .

 

ABV

12 % ().

Scores

 

• Wine Spectator: 92 (2023) ()

• James Suckling: 91 ()

• Wine Enthusiast: 90