Hosted by Constance Delaire at 67 Pall Mall in London, a recent tasting event showcased Laurent-Perrier’s four notable Champagnes: Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature, Héritage, 2015 Brut Millésimé, and Cuvée Rosé. The selection was particularly striking not just for the wines themselves but also for the absence of some others that had been previously celebrated at the same venue.
Constance Delaire, the new "communication-focused enologist," led the tasting with a focus on the house’s philosophy of freshness, finesse, and elegance. With a background in biochemistry and enology, Delaire’s expertise was evident as she discussed the wines, emphasizing key factors in their production, such as grape selection, vinification methods, and extended cellar aging.
Blanc de Blancs Brut NatureThe first wine, the Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature, sourced from the 2016 vintage and blended with reserve wines from 2014, presented a pale gold hue. It showcased fresh and aromatic qualities, highlighted by sweet vanilla, lemon, and a hint of ginger. The wine’s initial richness transitioned into a dry, zesty finish, affirming its status as an excellent pairing for food. | 94
HéritageNext was Héritage, launched last year by former cellar master Michel Fauconnet, representing a carefully crafted blend of reserve wines. This inaugural release combined 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir from various vintages. It delivered complex aromas and a rich mid-palate, embodying a balance of freshness and subtle bitterness. | 93
2015 Brut MillésiméThe tasting then moved to the 2015 Brut Millésimé. Delaire recalled the challenging weather conditions of that year, resulting in wines with generous fruitiness. This blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir was beginning to exhibit evolving complexity, marked by a fine mousse and a seductive richness tempered by lively acidity. | 93
Cuvée RoséFinally, the iconic Cuvée Rosé rounded out the tasting. Unlike many other rosés, this wine is not blended with red wine but crafted through a meticulous maceration process directly from the grapes. Its vibrant strawberry and raspberry notes, deeper bronze hue, and rich texture showcased the attention given to its production. | 93
Constance Delaire’s mastery and fresh perspective were palpable throughout the tasting, elevating the presentation of the wines. As Laurent-Perrier transitions into a new era with Delaire and Olivier Vigneron at the helm, their combined vision may well define the future of this esteemed Champagne house.