Perrier-Jouët, founded in 1811 by Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and Rose Adélaide Jouët, sits astride the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and has over the years become synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and art, often collaborating with artists.
Perrier-Jouët is well-known for its floral and elegant wines. The brand gained prominence in the 19th century, particularly for its use of Chardonnay, which has become a hallmark of its distinct, refined style.
At the heart of Perrier-Jouët's legacy is the Maison Belle Époque, a historic Art Nouveau villa built at the end of the 18th century and named after the golden cultural age in Europe that roughly spans the end of the Franco-Prussian War (1871) to the start of World War 1 (1914). For a region such as Champagne, sandwiched between warring nations, the peaceful and artistic period has added meaning and is widely celebrated as the "Beautiful Age."
The Maison Belle Époque is a living museum and a luxurious guesthouse, and houses an impressive private collection of Art Nouveau artifacts, including works by Émile Gallé, whose iconic anemone design adorns Perrier-Jouët's most famous bottles.
Drinks Trade tasted three of the brand's most luxurious Champagnes.
Perrier-Jouët - Belle Epoque Rosé 2014
Appearance: In the glass this Rosé displays a delicate coral-pink hue.
Nose: The nose is immediately captivating, offering red fruits...think wild strawberries, raspberries, and a whisper of red currants, layered with floral notes of rose. Citrus zest and almond provide added complexity.
Palate: The wine is both vibrant and silky, with a balanced acidity that enhances its freshness. The red fruit flavours carry through, complemented by nuances of blood orange and a touch of minerality that adds depth.
Finish: The fine, persistent bubbles lend a creamy texture, leading to a long, graceful finish with lingering notes of pink grapefruit and a delicate hint of spice.
Notes: Elegance and finesse are descriptors that can be used across all of the wines we tasted.
Perrier-Jouët - Belle Epoque Brut 2015
Appearance: It pours a brilliant pale gold, with a fine stream of delicate bubbles.
Nose: The nose is a symphony of fresh white flowers, honeysuckle and acacia, interwoven with orchard fruits like white peach, pear, and crisp green apple. There's also a subtle undercurrent of toasted almonds and brioche, reflecting its time spent aging on the lees.
Palate: On the palate, the wine is both vibrant and creamy, showcasing a remarkable harmony between its lively acidity and its rich, smooth texture. The fruit flavors are beautifully integrated, with ripe apple and juicy pear at the forefront, complemented by a touch of citrus zest and a whisper of vanilla.
Finish: The mineral backbone adds precision, leading to a long, clean finish with a delicate echo of honey and a hint of spice.
Notes: Balance and elegance, offering freshness and complexity.
Perrier-Jouët - Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs 2014
Appearance: A pale, translucent gold.
Nose: The nose is immediately enticing, offering white flowers, lilies, jasmine, and elderflower, complemented by fresh citrus notes of lemon zest and green apple. Subtle hints of chalky minerality and almond blossom add complexity and depth.
Palate: On the palate, this Blanc de Blancs is exceptionally refined and precise, with a vibrant acidity. The citrus and floral notes from the nose carry through, enhanced by white peach, nectarine, and brioche. The texture is silky and seamless, with a fine mousse adding a creamy elegance.
Finish: The finish is long and crystalline, leaving a lingering impression of freshness, with a delicate minerality and a whisper of toasted hazelnuts.
Notes: A stunning expression of Chardonnay, exceptional purity and sophistication.
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