Grand Siècle is the Prestige Cuvee of Laurent Perrier, one of the few non-Vintage Prestige Cuvee in Champagne. Started in 1950s, Bernard de Nonancourt decided to blend 3 of the great vintages together to create a perfect cuvee that a normal a Vintage Cuvee won’t be able to match. Grapes are from Grand Cru vineyards only. Grand Siècle key characteristics:
- Blend of 3 top vintages
- Chardonnay dominant, and Pinot Noir from 11 Grand Cru villages
- Aged on lees for a minimum of 10 years
Tasting Notes
Laurent Perrier Vintage 2008
50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay from Grand Cru vineyards only in this vintage. Disgorged 6-8 months ago. Delicate nose of lemon drizzle, moussey brioche. Light bodied with piercing acidity, focused and linear. (88/100)
Grand Siècle No. 25
The Grand Siècle No. 25 is the latest release from Laurent Perrier. 2008 base vintage (65%), 2007 (25%), 2006 (10%). 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir from 9 Grand Crus (Cramant, Avize, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Verzy, Tours-sur-Marne, Mailly). 12 years on lees, 7g/L of dosage. One of the best releases of Grand Siècle. Incredible energy and drive, a combination of electric acidity and bright citrus fruits of 2008 and 2007, with a sprinkle of rich yellow fruits of 2006. Expansive minerals on the mid-palate, just like licking on a wet slate. Drink from 2022 – 2042. (91+/100)
Grand Siècle No. 23
Grand Siècle No. 23 is a blend of 2006 (65%), 2004 (20%), and 2002 (15%). 58% Chardonnay, 42% Pinot Noir. Aged on lees for 14 years. En Magnum – Gorgeous aromatics and intensity straight out from the glass without swirling it. A rich and complex array of mousse-y white orchard fruits, ripe citrus and fresh pastries. The bouquet jumps straight out from the glass. Really delicious already with many more years of ageing potential. My favourite Grand Siècle release. Drink from 2021 – 2037. (93/100)
Grand Siècle No. 20
Lucie generously opened a No. 20 in magnum from their reserve. Blend of 1999, 1997, 1996. 54% Chardonnay, 46% Pinot Noir from 8 Grand Crus. Aged on lees for 20 years +. Insanely fresh bouquet, I would have guessed 10 years younger than it is. (Benefited from the magnum effect plus perfect storage at the Domaine). The moussey texture has softened up over the years and it’s gained a subtle umami complexity. A touch of straightforwardness from the vintage characteristics, light and elegant. (92-93/100)
