This April, Veuve Clicquot brings its highly anticipated collaboration with acclaimed French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus to New Zealand, marking the local debut of the limited-edition La Grande Dame 2018.
To celebrate the launch, Herne Bay's Paris Butter will host an exclusive, bookable Mother’s Day experience, bringing the spirit of the collaboration to life through a refined, distinctly French lens.
Originally released in 2025, La Grande Dame 2018 represents the 25th vintage of the cuvée and is a pure expression of Veuve Clicquot’s mastery of ‘L’Art du Pinot Noir’, Madame Clicquot’s enduring philosophy that Pinot Noir is the only grape capable of producing wines of unmatched finesse and freshness.
The collaboration unites two creative universes shaped by joy and sunlight. Veuve Clicquot’s iconic yellow, introduced in 1877, evokes warmth and optimism, while Jacquemus draws ongoing inspiration from his southern French heritage and its luminous landscapes.
At its heart, the partnership is a tribute to women. The legacy of Madame Clicquot, who took the reins of the House in 1805 and became one of the first modern businesswomen, resonates deeply with Jacquemus, whose work is inspired by the strength and radiance of his mother.
The limited-edition design is instantly recognisable for its handwritten logo and signature by Jacquemus on an irregularly edged yellow label embossed with sun rays. The bottle is draped with white linen evoking the timeless elegance of family heirlooms that have been carefully washed, sun-dried and starched with Marseille soap - a poetic nod to traditional methods once used to keep champagne cool during warm Mediterranean summers.
“La Grande Dame 2018 is the outcome of simple materials, meaningful gestures, and strong women’s stories, yet it is ultimately a celebration of and for optimistic and memorable moments,” says Simon Porte Jacquemus. “From the bright and joyful spirit to the excellence in savoir-faire, I admire and share the same values as Veuve Clicquot.”
Bridging the codes of couture and champagne, the gift box is sheathed in a “toile du Marais” fabric with sun rays and a ribbon alternating the Veuve Clicquot logo and Simon’s signature.
“It is a great honour for Veuve Clicquot to partner with such an inspiring designer as Simon Porte Jacquemus,” says Jean-Marc Gallot, CEO of Veuve Clicquot. “We found common values in joy, optimism, and conviviality that the House has upheld for 250 years. This collaboration is a new expression of these values and of our effortless chic Art de Vivre."
Mother’s Day at Paris Butter
To mark the New Zealand launch, Paris Butter will offer the limited edition bottle from 5-10 May.
On the 10 May, their bookable Mother’s Day experience is designed to celebrate the occasion in style. Guests will enjoy a curated dining experience featuring La Grande Dame 2018 in a refined setting that reflects the elegance and warmth of the collaboration, with each mother also receiving a complimentary bouquet.
This limited-time experience offers a considered way to celebrate Mother’s Day, pairing exceptional champagne with thoughtful, elevated touches.
Availability in New Zealand
The La Grande Dame 2018 x Simon Porte Jacquemus release is available exclusively at Normanby Fine Wines in Auckland and their new Wellington store opening today at 23 Marion Street in Te Aro for RRP$345.00 from the 14th of April, with the ability to ship nationally.
Mother’s Day bookings at Paris Butter are now open here: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/parisbutterauckland/mothers-day-2026-4882596154884096
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