The predominance of Pinot Noir provides the structure that is so typically Clicquot, while a touch of Pinot Meunier rounds out the blend. Chardonnay adds the elegance and finesse essential in a perfectly balanced wine. Grapes from as many as 50 to 60 different Crus go to the blending of Brut Yellow Label.
Traditionally, the proportion of each grape variety used is:
50 to 55% Pinot Noir
15 to 20% Pinot Meunier
28 to 33% Chardonnay.
These figures vary slightly from year to year according to conditions. The Cellar Master has to achieve the total consistency of taste, which makes Brut Yellow Label so immediately recognisable, so utterly reliable both in terms of quality, colour and bouquet. He will draw on priceless reserve wines for the blend: from 25 to 35%, sometimes as much as 40% to ensure the continuity of the House style. Each of these older wines - perhaps nine years old - is kept separately to preserve the unique qualities of the vineyard and the vintage.
