Moet et Chadon, Brut Impérial

There is so much to say about Moet et Chandon and yet there is also so little. Clearly one of the most successful brands and companies in the world, their concentrated approach to marketing and delivery of very high-end consumer goods is almost unparalleled in its execution and its wide ranging diversity. In the winery they proudly claim that this Impérial is a cuvée of more than 200 different wines to ensure that the quality of the product remains consistent from one release to the next. This in reality can only be achieved by a very few wineries in the region and because of their size, power and ambition, Moet can do just as they like. The same winery makes a number of other wines that are also consistent and excellent - right the way to their prestige cuvée which is Dom Perignon. Founded in 1743, they have grown to have vineyards in all of the key districts of Champagne: Montagne de Reims, Valée de la Marne, Côtes des Blancs, Sezanne and Aube - their reach is vast. So too is their control, and it is likely that this wine will remain in its current stylistic state for many years to come. It is no mean feat and has set a benchmark that no other house is likely to reach.