Champagne AOC Brut Impérial Moët & Chandon

What kind of wine is it?

Brut Impérial by Moët & Chandon is a Champagne made using the Traditional Method, from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. This Champagne stands out for its balanced style and lively freshness, with a harmonious structure reflecting the Maison's tradition. The bottle fermentation and maturation for at least 24 months on the lees give aromatic complexity and a fine bubble, making this wine suitable for various occasions.

Where does it come from?

Brut Impérial is born in the Champagne region in north-eastern France, where the cool climate and fossil-rich clay-limestone soils foster high-quality grapes. The vines, at altitudes between 90 and 300 meters, benefit from constant ventilation and optimal sunlight. These conditions allow for slow ripening, favoring natural acidity and the mineral aromas typical of Champagne.

How is it produced?

The production of Brut Impérial begins with the hand harvest of grapes coming from several Grands and Premiers Crus. After a gentle pressing, the musts ferment separately in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature to preserve freshness. The blend includes reserve wines to ensure consistency and complexity. The second fermentation takes place in the bottle according to the Traditional Method, followed by at least 24 months of aging on the lees, with manual riddling and disgorgement.

Tasting notes

Visually, Brut Impérial displays a brilliant straw yellow color with golden and greenish reflections, and a fine, persistent perlage. The nose releases notes of citrus, green apple, and white flowers, with hints of brioche and hazelnut. The palate is fresh and harmonious, with a balanced structure and good acidity. The taste offers white fruits like pear and peach, with slight mineral nuances and a long finish with citrus freshness.

Food pairings

Brut Impérial is a perfect match for seafood dishes such as oysters, shellfish, and fish carpaccio, with a style that enhances their delicacy thanks to its acidity. It is ideal with sushi and sashimi and pairs well with the flavor of raw fish without overpowering it. It also goes well with Provençal fish soup, smoked salmon, and Italian dishes like seafood risotto, where the creaminess of the rice harmonizes with the vivacity of the Champagne.

Serving suggestions

Brut Impérial is best enjoyed young, within the first five years after bottling, when freshness and acidity are most evident. Thanks to the balance between fruit and lees aging, it can evolve up to eight years and develop hints of bread and hazelnut. The ideal serving temperature is between 6 and 8 °C, which enhances the perlage and aromatic nuances, both as an aperitif and with food pairings.