Veuve Clicquot

Veuve Clicquot, now one of the largest Champagne Houses, was founded in 1772 by Philippe Clicquot under the label "Clicquot". After establishing the brand throughout Europe, Russia and the United States, Philippe was joined by his son, François Clicquot, at the head of the House in 1798. Seven years later, following his untimely death, François’ young widow, Barbe Ponsardin, took over the family business at just 27 years old. The House would subsequently be renamed in her honor: ‘Veuve Clicquot’ means ‘The Widow Clicquot.’

Over the course of her lifetime, Madame Clicquot (Barbe Ponsardin), developed three of the most important innovations in Champagne that are still practiced today. First, in 1810 Veuve Clicquot produced the first vintage wine in Champagne, which otherwise produced non-vintage blends. Second, in 1816 Madame Clicquot invented the riddling table to clarify Veuve Clicquot champagne, and by doing so, she improved both the quality and finesse of the wines. Riddling is now fundamental to ‘La Methode Traditionelle’ (the traditional Champagne production method) and is emulated around the world. Finally, in 1818 Madame Clicquot created the first rose champagne made through ‘assemblage’, a method where white wines are blended with red wines.