Laurent-Perrier 2018 and Grand Siècle Iteration 27: Aromatic Precision
The family-owned Laurent-Perrier Champagne house showcases its unique approach with two significant wines: the 2018 Vintage and Grand Siècle Iteration 27. Unlike corporate giants like LVMH or Lanson BCC, Laurent-Perrier remains focused solely on its singular brand and its family roots, which are evident in the discussions around its production and philosophy.
During a lunch at London’s Lanesborough Hotel, chef de cave Olivier Vigneron, who has been with Laurent-Perrier since 2004, emphasizes the winery’s innovative spirit and its commitment to crafting high-quality Champagne. This includes a historical significance as the first to offer a zero-dosage Champagne and to pioneer the Multi-Vintage deluxe cuvée with Grand Siècle.
The 2018 Vintage is celebrated for its balance of elements drawn from a challenging year characterized by both a wet winter and intense summer heat. This vintage demonstrates the meticulousness of Laurent-Perrier, with a focus on purity and finesse, resulting in a wine with fresh notes of lemon, spring flowers, and a slight nuttiness. It is predominantly Chardonnay, which creates an elegant and lively profile.
Olivier also introduces the "Héritage" cuvée, illustrating the importance of reserve wines in their assemblage. With over 300 large vats of reserve wine, Olivier insists on their vital role in enhancing Champagne’s character.
The Grand Siècle Iteration 27 presents a blend of three vintages, showcasing a complexity borne from collaborative crafting. It reflects Olivier’s philosophy that the blend can achieve greater aromatic depth and refinement than individual components might promise.
The tasting of these two wines reveals remarkable distinctions. The 2018 Vintage is radiant and lively with a clean, vibrant structure, while the Grand Siècle Iteration 27 offers a more nuanced and cohesive experience, drawing from a mix of vintages characterized by differing seasonal challenges yet coming together harmoniously.
As Olivier reflects on modern challenges in viticulture, including climate unpredictability, he underlines the need for sustainable practices and the importance of careful vineyard management to uphold the high standards of Laurent-Perrier.
Both wines, through their expression and craftsmanship, affirm Laurent-Perrier’s position as a unique and innovative player in the world of fine Champagne.
Tasting Notes:
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2018 Laurent-Perrier: A bright green-gold hue with energetic mousse. Aromas of lemon, spring flowers, white peach, and hints of bakery notes on the palate, showcasing vibrancy and clarity. | Score: 92–94
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Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle Iteration 27: An alluring wine with a luminous quality, exhibiting notes of honeysuckle, almond, and Amalfi lemon. The palate reveals a refined integration of various vintage characteristics, promising further evolution. | Score: 94–96
For more details, visit Laurent-Perrier.