Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial Wooden Box 300cl., 3 L

ICE Impérial is not just any demi-sec champagne. It is the pioneer of an entire category of drinks: sparkling summer beverages. In the 3-litre Jeroboam, it is certainly the centrepiece of any party.

Only a few years ago, adding ice cubes to a glass of champagne would have drawn disapproving looks in France. This changed with ICE Impérial. Moët & Chandon developed a champagne specifically for summer locations such as St Tropez, Ibiza and the beach clubs of Miami.

Demi-sec, meaning quite sweet, this champagne truly reveals its character when served over ice, ideally with a little lime and perhaps a leaf of mint. It is extremely fruity, with clear notes of honey, exotic fruits, mango and pineapple, and shows its best qualities when well chilled.

ICE Impérial is even more impressive in the large 3-litre bottle. The Jeroboam creates a striking visual effect and also enhances harmony and freshness through slower maturation.

ICE Impérial has become a cult favourite. A look around shows that many champagne houses and numerous sparkling wine producers have followed, offering similar products. Often closely imitated, but the original remains the original.

Very rare, highly sought after and almost always sold out. This is especially true of the impressive 3-litre wooden crate.