In Champagne, the term “vintage” typically signifies excellence, especially when it comes to Prestige Cuvées. However, Laurent-Perrier holds a unique perspective, firmly believing that true perfection can only be achieved through the art of assemblage, where various wine components are skillfully blended. This approach, they argue, can offer what nature alone cannot provide: the essence of the perfect year.
The essence of a perfect year, according to Laurent-Perrier, is embodied in a remarkable champagne with the potential for extended ageing. Over time, this champagne undergoes a transformative journey, gaining depth, intensity, and a captivating aromatic complexity. Yet, it retains its essential qualities of freshness and vibrancy. This delicate balance of ageing and vitality is what defines the pursuit of perfection at Laurent-Perrier, where the art of assemblage is celebrated as the key to crafting extraordinary champagne wines.
Vintages and Vinification
The assemblage of vintage years for this particular blend consists of the following components:
2012 (65%): In this year, the vineyards experienced the impact of winter and spring frosts, resulting in relatively moderate yields. However, the dry and sunny summer that followed yielded wines characterized by great finesse. The Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from 2012 contributed elegance and balance to the blend, featuring delightful red fruit aromas.
2008 (25%): The 2008 vintage was marked by a cool yet sunny summer, which led to the production of wines with a complex and well-structured profile. It was an outstanding vintage, particularly noteworthy for the high-quality Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that showcased exceptional aromatic richness.
2007 (10%): In 2007, the vineyards experienced a warm spring, although the effects of this were balanced out by a mixed summer. The result was straightforward wines with a beautiful freshness, which are known to age gracefully. The Chardonnays from 2007 contribute complex aromas of white and citrus fruits, while the Pinot Noirs offer enticing aromas of yellow fruits.
This assemblage of these three distinct vintage years brings together their unique characteristics, resulting in a wine blend that combines finesse, structure, freshness, and aromatic complexity, creating a truly exceptional and harmonious champagne. This wine is 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir, with the total of 10 years ageing on lees.
Tasting Notes
This wine presents a highly intricate aroma profile, blending the fragrances of honeysuckle, lemon, clementine, and the subtle richness of fresh butter. As you delve deeper, you’ll detect hints of hazelnut and a delicate touch of honey.
On the palate, it is gentle and refreshing, with flavours reminiscent of candied lemon and the freshness of newly harvested hazelnuts. The palate unfolds with a silky texture and a mineral essence, offering additional notes of honeysuckle, lightly toasted almonds, and the bright zest of clementine.
Food pairing suggestion: Thai style langoustine tartare.
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