Veuve Clicquot is one of Champagne's best known producers, and has been a consistent seller since it was founded in 1772. It famously invented the process of riddling, which removed the dead yeast cells and gave the finished wines a clear appearance. The house was founded by Philippe Clicquot in 1772 as a sideline to his successful textile business, but became the second largest producer of Champagne in the region under his daughter-in-law, Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin. Pinot Noir has dominated over Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier in this blend from its inception.