A Guide To Laurent-Perrier: 10 Things To Know
1. The History of Laurent-Perrier
Laurent-Perrier is a globally renowned champagne house with a rich history dating back to 1812. The estate was established by André Michel Pierlot, who handed it down to his cellar master, Eugene Laurent. It was not until 1881, after Eugene’s death, that his widow, Mathilde Emilie Perrier, took over and combined their names to create Laurent-Perrier. Since then, the estate has been driven by a commitment to quality and innovation, earning its place as one of the most prestigious champagne producers in the world.
2. Tradition and Craftsmanship
Laurent-Perrier is celebrated for its unwavering dedication to traditional winemaking techniques combined with a focus on craftsmanship. Each bottle of champagne embodies years of experience and expertise, with careful grape selection, gentle pressing, and meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire production process. The house’s commitment to maintaining the authenticity of their champagnes while embracing innovation sets them apart in the industry.
3. The Laurent-Perrier Style
The champagnes from Laurent-Perrier are known for their elegant and distinctive style. The non-vintage Brut showcases the freshness and finesse of the house, with a delicate balance of fruitiness and complexity. The Cuvée Rosé, with its seductive pink hue, is a symbol of creativity, reflecting Laurent-Perrier’s pioneering spirit. Other cuvées, such as the Vintage and the prestige cuvée Grand Siècle, offer an even more exceptional and unique tasting experience.
4. Commitment to Sustainability
Laurent-Perrier takes the issue of sustainability seriously and strives to minimize their environmental impact. They have implemented various eco-friendly practices in their vineyards, such as organic farming methods and reducing the use of chemicals. The winery also prioritizes energy efficiency and has made significant investments in renewable energy sources. With a deep respect for nature, Laurent-Perrier aims to protect the environment for generations to come.
5. Prestigious Vineyards
To ensure the highest quality grapes, Laurent-Perrier owns and manages 100 hectares of prestigious vineyards across the Champagne region, many of which are classified as Grand Cru and Premier Cru. These exceptional vineyards provide the foundation for their top-tier champagnes, allowing the winery to exercise meticulous control over vineyard practices and ensure the grapes meet their stringent quality standards.
6. Cellar Master Michel Fauconnet
The expertise and vision of the Laurent-Perrier cellar master, Michel Fauconnet, are instrumental in maintaining the house’s reputation for excellence. With nearly four decades of experience, Fauconnet meticulously oversees every stage of the winemaking process. His profound understanding of the vineyards and passion for crafting exceptional champagnes ensure that each bottle reflects the unique style of Laurent-Perrier.
7. Visiting Laurent-Perrier
Visiting Laurent-Perrier is an unforgettable experience for champagne enthusiasts. The estate offers guided tours that take you through their beautiful cellars, revealing the secrets behind their champagnes. Exploring the vineyards, meeting the expert winemakers, and indulging in tastings of their exceptional cuvées provide a true insight into the world of Laurent-Perrier. An added bonus is the opportunity to purchase exclusive champagnes directly from the estate’s boutique.
8. Pairing with Laurent-Perrier Champagnes
Laurent-Perrier champagnes are versatile and can be enjoyed in various pairing combinations. The vibrant and fruit-driven non-vintage Brut complements seafood, oysters, and light dishes. The Cuvée Rosé stands up well to stronger flavors, making it an excellent choice for pairing with lamb or duck. For special occasions or moments of celebration, the Vintage and Grand Siècle champagnes make for a perfect accompaniment to gourmet meals and fine cheeses.
9. Recognitions and Awards
Laurent-Perrier’s unwavering commitment to excellence has earned them numerous accolades and industry recognition. They have received accolades from renowned wine critics and have been awarded prestigious titles such as “Champagne Producer of the Year” multiple times. These accolades speak to the consistent quality and outstanding craftsmanship that Laurent-Perrier upholds, making their champagnes a choice for those seeking the best.
10. Exploring Laurent-Perrier Further
To delve deeper into the world of Laurent-Perrier, explore their official website and discover their range of exquisite champagnes, vineyard locations, and the story behind each cuvée. Online resources and wine forums can provide additional insights from experts and fellow champagne aficionados. Further enhance your appreciation for Laurent-Perrier by immersing yourself in the art and science of champagne-making through books and documentaries that showcase the journey from vine to bottle.
Useful links:
– Official Laurent-Perrier website: www.laurent-perrier.com
– Laurent-Perrier Vineyard Locations: www.laurent-perrier.com/en/introduction/our-vineyards
– Laurent-Perrier Champagnes: www.laurent-perrier.com/en/cuvées
– Wine Spectator Review of Laurent-Perrier: www.winespectator.com/producer/show/4407
– Champagne Guide: The Definitive Guide to Champagne by Tyson Stelzer: www.tysonstelzer.com/books/champagne-guide/
