Viniou Reviews
Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial is a remarkable non-vintage Champagne created specifically to be enjoyed over ice, an innovative approach within the world of traditional sparkling wines. This particular cuvée is a blanc de noirs, meaning it is made entirely from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, offering a robust, fruity profile, rather than the lighter, more floral characteristics found in blanc de blancs. As a demi-sec, it possesses a subtle sweetness, balanced by a fresh vivacity and a creamy effervescence. The blend is artfully crafted to maintain richness and intensity, highlighted by aromas of exotic fruits, stone fruits, and hints of red berries and sweet spices, finished with a smooth and mellow mouthfeel.
Champagne, located in north-eastern France, is world-renowned for its unique terroir. The region’s cool, continental climate and chalky limestone soils contribute significantly to the freshness, finesse, and minerality of its sparkling wines. The chalk subsoil provides excellent drainage yet retains enough moisture, encouraging vine roots to delve deep, ensuring complexity and balance in the wines. With a history of viticulture dating back to Roman times and the invention of méthode champenoise, Champagne has become a symbol of celebration and elegance globally.
This demi-sec, with its rich fruitiness and soft sweetness, lends itself beautifully to a range of food pairings. It is particularly delightful alongside fresh summer salads featuring mango or pineapple, Asian-inspired dishes such as sushi or lightly spiced Thai cuisine, and even richer fare such as foie gras or pâté en croûte, which echo both the region and the cuvée's plush texture. For a regional experience, try pairing it with Chaource cheese, a creamy delicacy from Champagne.
For serving, Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial truly shines when served over ice, a rarity for Champagne. Aim for a temperature between 6-8°C, ideally in a large wine glass with several ice cubes to enhance its fruit-forward, refreshing character—perfect for festive gatherings or summer afternoons.
