Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle 25

The iteration 25 of the Grand Siecle is 65% from the great 2008 year and has therefore been long awaited. 2008 has ripeness with high acidity levels, which are already well absorbed by the concentration and body, but provide for an ageing potential of three decades until it is really on point, although it can be stored for much longer. The growing season was characterised by plenty of sunlight but rather moderate temperatures and the best 2008s have refined complex fruit flavours. The 25% of the 2007 vintage contributes aromas of lemon, apple and peach, making the iteration 25 a little rounder on the palate for all its minerality. 2006 makes up the last 10% of the cuvee. This warm full year has already developed aromas, but they do not come through in the youthful freshness of the Grand Siecle.

The 60% Chardonnay comes from Avize, Cramant, Oger and Le Mesnil sur Oger; the 40% Pinot Noir from Ambonnay, Bouzy, Tours sur Marne, Verzy and Mailly. Thus, 9 of the 14 Grands Crus of Champagne are represented. As always, Grand Siecle was matured without any oxidation in enamelled steel tanks. It lay on its lees for 12 years and is dosed at 7 g per litre.

Grand Siecle is a champagne for connoisseurs. Today, it is one of the few prestige cuvees that make no concessions to the spirit of the times, which wants seductive aromas and a silky palate at a very young age, achieved through specially cultivated yeasts. Grand Siecle is very precise, mineral, concentrated but fine. The bouquet shows intense, ripe lemon with hints of toasted almonds and brioche, which are also found on the palate. The long mineral finish ends with citrus. Grand Siecle is rather firmly structured when young, mineral precise and concentrated. Edition 25 has a citrusy fruitiness that is already a pleasure to drink, but patience will be rewarded. With its complexity and depth, this champagne shows the advantages of being able to choose from the best grapes of the Best Grand Crus, each of which contributes different nuances and qualities.