Lemon juice, apple slices, freshly baked baguettes. Bruised golden pear and clean chalky minerality. Correct and pleasant, but not overly compelling. We don't know if there is a label in the world that is more recognizable than this one and unfortunately we don't think high expectations help its cause. This Veuve Clicquot NV Brut Champagne is enjoyable, but in our opinion undeserving of all the hype.

Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot is one of the most well known and storied Champagne houses. They do produce some truly high-end wines, but we find their entry level cuvee to be just OK. Veuve's reputation as a status symbol seems to have skewed the style into something that is easy drinking and fun, but not particularly interesting. There are just so many better values in Champagne.