Moët & Chandon – An Icon in Culture and Pop Culture Through the Ages
Moët & Chandon is a historic company founded in 1743 in Champagne, France, by Claude Moët. Today, Moët & Chandon is not only the most popular champagne in the world but also an icon in both culture and pop culture. It is the official champagne supplier to the British royal household and has been mentioned in the song lyrics of musical legends such as Freddie Mercury and Prince. It even made an appearance in the film Pretty Woman, where the characters played by Richard Gere and Julia Roberts sipped on Moët & Chandon. Let's delve into the details step by step.
The Drink of Victory and Feminine Beauty
From the outset, Moët & Chandon was a favorite among celebrities. It was savored in royal courts and palaces across various countries. At the end of the 18th century, Jean-Rémy Moët, the grandson of founder Claude Moët, made a name for himself as the ambassador of champagne to the world. The elite and celebrities of the era quickly took a liking to it. The bubbles of champagne sparkled at diplomatic receptions, in the salons of noble ladies, and at royal balls. The favorite of French King Louis XV, Marquise de Pompadour, proclaimed that “Champagne is the only wine that leaves a woman still beautiful after drinking it!” Meanwhile, French Emperor Napoleon emphasized that champagne suits every occasion because “In victory, you deserve Champagne; in defeat, you need it.”
The Era of Hollywood Glamour
Over time, celebrities and their haunts evolved, but Moët & Chandon champagne remained the one constant presence. With the rise of Hollywood in the 20th century, especially throughout the 50s and 60s, Moët & Chandon made the transition from the courts of kings to the glitz of Los Angeles, onto movie sets, the glamorous red carpets of Hollywood, the prestigious Academy Awards celebrations, and the most private and lavish parties. At all these occasions, Moët & Chandon was savored, each glass embodying its rich history, savoir-faire or unique knowledge and experience, achievements, bravery, and sophistication.
The “It” Factor of Moët & Chandon
Even today, the “it” factor of Moët & Chandon continues. The brand features in contemporary films such as The Wolf of Wall Street and The Great Gatsby and has even appeared in the new American sports drama Gran Turismo. Even pop superstar Taylor Swift has toasted to the champagne in her songs. It’s high time to discard clichés and the notion that champagne only pairs with oysters. It can be perfectly enjoyed with cheese or even vegetarian and vegan dishes. Speaking of clichés, the idea that champagne should be saved only for special occasions like New Year’s Eve parties or birthday celebrations is also outdated. Open a bottle of champagne, and the moment becomes special!
Facts about Moët & Chandon
- The grapes for Moët & Chandon champagne are cultivated in a vast 5,000-hectare expanse in the Champagne province of France.
- Moët & Chandon champagne is produced from three grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay. From these grapes, 900 base wines are created. These white wines, in various combinations, are blended to create champagnes that best express the essence of the Moët & Chandon champagne house.
- The world of champagne is incredibly diverse. One can create a very complex, expressive flavor profile or, conversely, a very light and fresh one. The most popular is Moët Impérial, characterized by its particularly harmonious, balanced taste.
- Special mention goes to the Grand Vintage collection, such as Grand Vintage 2013 or Grand Vintage 2015 Rosé, which reflect the nuances, aura, and essence of each year’s grape harvest. Since 1842, Moët & Chandon has released 76 vintage champagnes in its collection.
Photo: Andris Krištabans