LAURENT-PERRIER

CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE

Why Buy: James Suckling declared the 100-point Siècle Grande Cuvée No. 26 "Wine of the Year," and also lavished 99 points on the Siècle Grande Cuvée No. 23. Those plaudits will come as no surprise at all to anyone who has had the privilege of savoring these crystalline and creamy Champagnes, which favor Chardonnay over Pinot Noir, undergo extended aging in ancient chalk cellars, and are meticulously blended. This centuries-old house is operating at the very peak of its powers, and we're proud to be able to take you on this dazzling portfolio tour. A fantastic opportunity for you to stock your cellar with wines that will elevate any occasion from the special to the unforgettable.

What They’re Saying: Electric on the palate,” Suckling wrote, of the 100-point Siècle Grande Cuvée No. 26, a Champagne that is “so complex [but] always subtle … with a freshness and balance that draws you back. Spectacular. Fascinating. Symphonic.” He was nearly as swept away by  the Siècle Grande Cuvée No. 23, a 99-pointer with “fabulous aromas of brioche, pie crust, lemon tart and fresh apple,,” a “very dense and layered” palate, a “powerful acidity [that] gives great structure,” and a finish that “goes on for minutes.”

Our Tasting Notes: All the signatures of Laurent-Perrier's hallmark style are on display in this dazzling collection: precision, freshness, and remarkable length. From the crisp minerality of the Ultra Brut to the infinitely complex layering of the majestic Grand Siècle editions, each wine is notable, also, for its impeccable balance and energy. The house's commitment to Chardonnay is abundantly evident, lending a thread of elegance that runs from the vibrant Blanc de Blancs to the nuanced Alexandra Rosé. What stands out across the range is the persistent, refined finish — a Laurent-Perrier hallmark, and one that invites contemplation of life’s abundance and mystery with each and every sip.

The Story: A pioneer of the ultra-brut style and innovator of the multi-vintage prestige cuvée, Laurent-Perrier has long pushed against the boundaries of what Champagne can be — a legacy of Bernard de Nonancourt, who arrived in 1948. This was the change that launched the property, founded in the early 1800s, into the modern era. A war hero with an irrepressible spirit, De Nonancourt brought a fresh perspective to the venerable tradition of Champagne-making, and emphasized experimentation and innovation. In 1959, he introduced Grand Siècle, a bold reimagining of vintage Champagne that blends three exceptional years to create, in essence, the perfect vintage. This spirit of innovation continued with the launch of Cuvée Rosé in 1968, using the saignée method to create a rosé of unprecedented intensity and freshness. The Ultra Brut, introduced in 1981, predated the current trend for low-dosage Champagnes by decades. Today, led by Bernard's daughters Alexandra and Stéphanie, Laurent-Perrier continues to balance respect for tradition with a forward-thinking approach. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture ensures the house will continue to produce exceptional Champagnes for generations to come. From the chalk cellars where their wines slowly mature to the vineyards where it all begins, Laurent-Perrier embodies the artistry and passion that define great Champagne. Each bottle tells a story - not just of a single vintage or blend, but of two centuries of dedication to the craft.

What to Pair Them With: The eminent versatility of this collection means that there’s a Laurent-Perrier pairing for a wide range of preparations. Think ceviche or chilled, poached shrimp with the Ultra Brut, oysters on the halfshell with the Blanc de Blancs Nature, and duck or salmon with the Alexandra Rosé. The Grand Siècle, meanwhile, is the Champagne you’re looking for when it comes to a celebratory toast.

Fun Fact: Laurent-Perrier's cellars in Tours-sur-Marne are housed in former chalk quarries dating back to the 11th century. These ancient caves, with their constant temperature and humidity, provide the ideal conditions for aging Champagne.

Our Guarantee: As always, we only buy and ship directly from the estate, to ensure that your wines arrive with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!


 

*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2025). With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NY, TN, or WI. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Tuesday, August 20th, 2024.