Scouring shop shelves for exceptional, fine wine can be quite a challenge. But out of the many different options, one label often catches the eye with its very vibrant color: the Veuve Clicquot Yellow.
Produced by the prestigious Maison Veuve Clicquot, the Yellow Label is the House’s signature champagne. It comes in bright yellow packaging that stands out from shelves of all wine shops and grocery stores worldwide.
But, believe it or not, the bottles and packaging of all Veuve Clicquot champagnes are not designed to stand out—they are pasted with yellow labels for a reason.
So what makes this champagne so special? And why do so many people see orange despite its yellow label?
Well, keep reading and you will find out!
The Champagne Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut
The Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label is one of the most iconic champagnes out there. It is a classic with a blend of grape varieties from 50 to 60 different Crus in the Champagne region of France.
This champagne’s refined full structure comes from Pinot Noir (50%), while Pinot Meunier (20%) rounds out the blend and Chardonnay (30%) adds elegance and layers of citrus and minerality required for a well-balanced wine. Reserved wines (48%) are added to enhance the champagne’s complexity and depths of flavors.
The percentage of each grape variety used for the blend has traditionally been 50 to 55% Pinot Noir, 15 to 20% Meunier, and 28 to 33% Chardonnay.
The percentage of reserve wines used can vary, as well. But they are generally high. About 25 to 35% and even as high as 40% of reserves wines are used from several harvests.
On the palate, this bubbly is extra dry and is medium to full-bodied. It has notes of bread dough, vanilla, peach, quince, and pecan. It pairs well with cheese and any aperitif style. The wine has a pale lemon to golden yellow color with fine bubbles.
On the nose, it has pastry aromas of brioche and croissant, as well as hints of dried fruits, white and yellow fruits like pear and apple, and citrus notes from mandarin and grapefruit.
But beyond its unique flavor profile and the lovely sensory experience it offers, the Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label is instantly recognizable for its distinctive packaging. The House pasted yellow on their bottles so buyers can separate dry from sweet champagnes.
In 1877, the vibrant color of the label was officially granted a patent. You will see it in all of Veuve Clicquot’s bottles. The yellow label also represents the signature quality and style of the Champagne House. It’s unmistakable and stands out on many shelves around the world.
Grande Dame de la Champagne: A Widow’s Triumph
Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin was the pioneer, the great woman behind it all. Being a widow at the age of 27, Madame Clicquot took over the business in 1805 when her husband, François Clicquot, who was heir to the estate died prematurely.
Although the Champagne House was founded in 1772 by François’s father Philippe Clicquot, it’s safe to say, however, that his death brought about the founding of Maison Veuve Clicquot, which translates to ‘widow Clicquot.’
Let’s not take away the credit from the lady, though. Madame Clicquot made a name for herself. In fact, she invented the riddling table in 1816. So during her time (and up to this day), Veuve Clicquot champagnes were always clearer and had more fine bubbles.
Being the Grande Dame de la Champagne she was, the lady personally took charge of the cellars. With her visionary and perfectionist spirit, she wanted to create only the finest and clearest wines.
How Much Is a Bottle of Veuve in the US?
The Champagne Veuve Clicquot Yellow is sold in different sizes. You can buy a standard 750 mL bottle of the Brut champagne for under $100, depending on where you get it from. If you buy directly from the Champagne House in France, you will definitely get it cheaper.
What Color Is the Label Veuve Clicquot?
The champagne brand calls it the Yellow Label. It has a brilliant yellow label, however, many wine connoisseurs are used to calling it orange. The yellow color of sparkling wine reflects its citrusy layers. But more importantly, it represents Maison Veuve Clicquot’s signature quality and style.
Is Veuve Clicquot Yellow or Orange?
The champagne brand labels the Veuve Clicquot Brut as yellow. However, many people can agree that the color is more on the orange side. Veuve Clicquot is widely known for its unmistakable bright yellow label.
Conclusion
Despite its official yellow label, the debate on whether Veuve Clicquot is yellow or orange remains an intriguing element of the champagne. However you see it, everyone loves this unique and luxurious wine that goes well with any occasion. It also makes a wonderful gift to your wine-loving friends.
Do you know of any other champagnes with an orange label? Feel free to share and we would love to know which ones are your favorites.
If you have more questions about this post, let us know and we will be happy to help. Cheers!