In Champagne, the term “vintage” often carries an association of excellence, particularly when it comes to Prestige Cuvées. However, Laurent-Perrier has consistently held a different perspective, firmly believing that true perfection can only be achieved through the art of assemblage, where various wine components are carefully blended. They maintain that this approach can achieve something that nature alone cannot provide: the essence of the perfect year.
The embodiment of a perfect year, according to Laurent-Perrier, is found in a remarkable Champagne wine that, with time, evolves to possess depth, intensity, and an intricate aromatic complexity, while still retaining its essential freshness and acidity. To craft such a wine, Laurent-Perrier relies on the defining characteristics of the exceptional vintage years in Champagne: a balance of freshness, structure, and finesse. Through the meticulous process of assemblage, they seek to capture the essence of these elements and create wines that stand as a testament to the artistry of Champagne-making.
Vintages and Vinification
The assemblage of this exceptional Champagne blend draws from three distinct vintage years, resulting in a harmonious and complex composition:
2008 (65%): This vintage is renowned for its structural qualities, boasting high-quality Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that reveal an exceptional aromatic richness.
2007 (25%): Known for its freshness, the Chardonnays from 2007 bring complexity with their notes of white fruits and citrus, while the Pinot Noirs are open and fruity, dominated by yellow fruit flavours.
2006 (10%): The 2006 vintage is celebrated for its finesse, featuring rich and intricate Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs with enticing red fruit aromas.
The grape varieties used in this blend consist of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, offering a balanced and dynamic composition.
The selection of crus for this Champagne includes a choice of 9 out of the 17 Grands Crus:
– Chardonnay: Avize, Cramant, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger.
– Pinot Noir: Ambonnay, Bouzy, Verzy, Tours-sur-Marne, Mailly.
Following the assemblage, this wine undergoes a patient aging process of 12 years on lees, allowing its flavors and textures to mature and evolve. The dosage, or the addition of liqueur de dosage, is carefully calibrated at 7 grams per liter, contributing to the final balance and sweetness level of the Champagne.
This meticulous blending and ageing process result in a Champagne of exceptional depth, complexity, and finesse, a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Champagne-making.
Tasting Notes
The wine greets the senses with an intense bouquet, opening with the lively fragrance of fresh citrus fruits. It’s followed by delicate hints of grilled almonds and the inviting aroma of brioche. Upon sipping, the wine initiates with a vibrant and toasted character, setting a refreshing tone. The finish lingers gracefully, offering enduring notes of citrus fruit.
Grand Siècle Iteration No. 25 stands out for its exceptional aromatic depth, a testament to its richness and complexity.
Food pairing suggestion: Turbot with mussel mousse, dulse, potatoes and white asparagus.
Did you know? Morgan Freeman has become the face of Grand Siecle, sharing the same Moto ‘It takes time to become an icon’.
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