Issue No.22 - International Edition Polo De’Marco Magazine - International Edition | Page 162

the finest and most delicate of grapes used to
create Champagne.Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque
is always a vintage: it is only produced
during the years where the balance between
alcohol and acidity is perfect and that the ageing
potential is outstanding, because this cuvee
stays at least 6 years in our cellars.To create
Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs, a
vintage cuvée, we use only two plots of land,
specific to our House: Bouron Leroi and Bouron
du Midi, in Cramant, in the heart of the Côte des
Blancs. In the expression of these two parcels
we find the floral side, with lightly honeyed
notes of dried fruit, nougat, almond, candied
fruits of melon and pear and then vanilla,
after 8 years of ageing on the lees. This wine
still has a form of nervousness on the palate but
is rich and powerful.On the contrary, Perrier-
Jouët Blanc de Blancs non-vintage is for
me the pure floral expression of spring, the
most lively cuvée of the House, with its very
delicate floral aromas of hawthorn, elderberry,
acacia and especially not heady floral notes,
which are then taken up by notes of white fruits
such as peach, pear and citrus fruits such as
lemon and grapefruit and citrus flowers (orange,
lemon) which make the transition between
flowers and fruits.
On the palate we find the signature of
Chardonnay with its freshness and liveliness,
but the finish is still Perrier-Jouët with that
rounded and charming side that makes this
champagne different from other Blanc de
Blancs, once again thanks to the use of specific
vintages.We include in this champagne 15%
of reserve wines to stay on this sensation
of freshness accompanied at the end of the
mouth by a small note of warmth, sunshine,
which is the most pleasant side in a wine,
and which makes us want to drink it again and
again.
8. What is the most challenging aspect 9. Where do your favorite grapes come
of being a highly-acclaimed professional from specifically in the Champagne/
champenoise?
Epernay region, and which are a few of
your favorite varieties?
HD: Since 1811, the House of Perrier-Jouët has
been making exceptional champagnes in a
floral and complex style. The Cellar Master’s
most challenging mission is to perpetuate
the unique heritage of the seven previous
Cellar Masters by revealing the essence of
Chardonnay and creating the classic and
vintage collections of the Maison Perrier-Jouët.
Our wines are timeless. For me, the House is a
perfect representation of the Art of Champagne.
The rich history, heritage and know-how of the
Maison Perrier-Jouët can be found in all our
vintages. It is one of the Cellar Master’s missions
to present his House’s champagnes worldwide.
HD: As the grandchild of champagne
winegrowers, I know there is Champagne only
in Champagne.
11. Please share with us the most
important aspect of a prestige champagne
that everyone should be aware of when
10. Explain please the difference(s)
choosing a high-quality bottle.
between your Blanc des Blancs (offered in
2017) and the coveted Belle Epoque Blanc Elegance, personality and rarity.Perrier-Jouët
des Blancs.
regularly wins awards demonstrating the
HD: Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque is different from
the other cuvees because of its blending, where
it is more focused on Chardonnay, the grape
with white flowers and citrus fruit aromas. It is
quality of its wines. Lately the House has been
awarded gold medals in several key influential
wine competitions. These awards pay tribute to
the savoir-faire and the exceptional vineyards of
the House.