Celebrate International Women’s day with Veuve Clicquot in honour of its inspiring leader, Madame Barbe-nicole Clicquot Ponsardin

A tribute to an inspiring leader ahead of her time who revolutionized the world of champagne through her namesake brand, Veuve Clicquot

Champagne had been a maledominated industry throughout its illustrious history. However, there was also a notable woman who had left an indelible mark in the wine industry. Her name was Madame Barbe-nicole Clicquot Ponsardin. The French woman started her wine business from the ground up and refined winemaking in the process. With her tireless efforts and forward-thinking innovation, Veuve Clicquot, veuve means widow in French, became the most sought-after wine brand in the market today.

Madame Clicquot Ponsardin was born and raised in a warm, familial environment as the daughter of affluent textile industrialist Baron Nicolas Ponsardin. She was well-educated before tying the knot in 1798 to François Clicquot, the son of Maison Clicquot’s founder. During the seven years of a happy marriage, she spent her time assisting her husband and learning the winemaking process and distribution. After François’ passing, despite doubts from society, she boldly continued the legacy of Maison Clicquot. Madame Clicquot Ponsardin became one of the first women who ran an international business in the 19th century.

Within five years, she brought the dying wine business back to life and changed its name to Veuve Clicquot-ponsardin. Turning any obstacles into a precious business experience, she invented the table de remuage (riddling table) technique to clarify champagne. The method is still used today to produce the clearest and best wines. Among many other achievements, the widow was also the first to create a rosé champagne blend in 1818.

Thus, Madame Clicquot Ponsardin was crowned as the “Grande Dame of Champagne” to honour her exceptional innovation and abilities. Thanks to her passion for champagne, today, the Maison maintains its quality as remarkably balanced and uniquely aromatic champagne. Her revolutionary leadership broke past the era’s status quo, and paved the way for more women to be active in the wine world. The Veuve Clicquot limited edition is available at Cellardoor.id.