On Sale: $345 (was: $395)*
A magnum of vintage Champagne is arguably one of the grandest statement pieces anyone can make with a wine, and the 200 year old house of Perrier-Jouet understands that better than most. Since the first release of their ‘Belle Epoque’ vintage Champagne in 1964, it has been and remains “one of Champagne’s most recognizable designs” (Galloni), but it’s what’s inside the bottle that has kept its reputation so strong into the 21st century. Today’s 2011 ‘Belle Epoque Luminous’ from Perrier-Jouet is a stunning centerpiece from the 200th anniversary of this classic Champagne house that you won't want to miss!
Perrier-Jouet is well known for its phenomenal vineyards in Cramant, Ay, and other top villages in Champagne, which serves this Chardonnay-forward tete de cuvee very well. Aged for a minimum of six years before disgorgement, its dosage is on the upper end of Brut, which recalls the classic style of Champagne from France’s Belle Epoque in the late 19th century without losing its modern sensibilities. The bottle art for ‘Belle Epoque’ was based on a classic anemone design by foundational Art Nouveau artist Émile Gallé, and has remained nearly unchanged since 1964. A “light, ethereal style of wine” (Wine Enthusiast), the 2011 will nevertheless age nicely over the next decade and be a showstopping magnum of Champagne for a special gift or celebration. Cheers!
94 points, Wine Enthusiast: "Always a light, ethereal style of wine, this is also very fresh and still young. It will age with its taut minerality from the Chardonnay in the blend. A softer background will become toasty over the next few years. The vintage date on this bottle is 200 years after the foundation of this producer. Drink from 2021."
92 points, Wine & Spirits: "A classic style of Champagne, intricately blended, this presents elegant flavors in a way that’s easier to drink than to describe. Is the depth coming from the cherry fruit, both savory and ripe? From the mineral structure that restricts that fruit, or the Cognac-like note of spice that may originate from the dosage? There was a time when no one would ask, and this wine is a happy outcome of the days when the big houses ruled."
*Offer publication date February 5, 2021. Pricing and availability subject to change.