5 Fun Facts About Veuve Clicquot Champagne

Veuve Clicquot is a champagne house known around the world for its luxurious and high-quality champagne. But did you know that the brand has a rich history spanning over 200 years, and is responsible for many innovations in the champagne industry? Here are 5 fun facts about Veuve Clicquot that you may not know.

Veuve Clicquot was Founded Over 200 Years Ago

Veuve Clicquot was founded in 1772 by Philippe Clicquot-Muiron. At the time, the company was involved in banking and wool trading in addition to champagne production. The company was passed down through the family until it was inherited by François Clicquot, who married Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, also known as Madame Clicquot. Madame Clicquot was just 27 years old when she became a widow and took over the champagne house in 1805.

Veuve Clicquot Translates to “Widow Clicquot”

Madame Clicquot became known as the "Widow Clicquot" and is recognized as the first woman to run a champagne house. She was known for her strong will and innovative ideas, and under her leadership, Veuve Clicquot became one of the most successful champagne houses in the world.

Veuve Clicquot Created the First-ever Vintage Champagne

After five years of unsuccessful vintages, war, and near-failure, Madame Clicquot enjoyed the success of 1810 with the first single-vintage champagne. The concept became a huge success the following year when the iconic 1811 vintage champagne was labeled 'The Year of the Comet.' Today, vintage champagne is considered one of the highest-quality types of champagne and is highly sought after by collectors and champagne enthusiasts alike.

Veuve Clicquot Invented the Riddling Rack, Allowing Champagne to be Mass-Produced

One of Madame Clicquot's most significant innovations was the invention of the riddling rack. Created with the help of the house's cellar master, the riddling rack allowed for a more efficient process of disgorgement for the final corking of champagne bottles. This innovation made it possible to mass-produce champagne, and the riddling rack is still used by sparkling wine producers around the world today.

According to Queen Elizabeth II, Veuve Clicquot is Fit for Royals

Veuve Clicquot is considered a luxury champagne and is often associated with royalty and high society. In fact, the wine holds a royal warrant of appointment in the United Kingdom, which means it is officially approved to be served to the British Royal Family. Queen Elizabeth II has been known to enjoy a glass of Veuve Clicquot, and the brand has also been served at royal weddings and other official events.

In conclusion, Veuve Clicquot is a champagne house with a rich history and many fascinating innovations. From the first-ever vintage champagne to the invention of the riddling rack, the brand has played an essential role in the development of the champagne industry. So, the next time you enjoy a glass of Veuve Clicquot, raise a toast to Madame Clicquot and the incredible legacy she left behind. Interested in trying it out for yourself? Order a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne today. While you're at it, check out some other amazing products we carry by clicking here.