Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Rosé 2014 is a vintage rosé Champagne from Champagne, crafted exclusively in selected years from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot noir. True to the free spirit of Maison Perrier-Jouët, Belle Epoque Rosé is a decidedly original Champagne that combines rarity with the ability to surprise, first created in 1978, produced only in exceptional years and in very limited quantities.
The house of Perrier-Jouët builds its identity around Chardonnay, which is reflected in the selection of vineyards. The wine is a blend of Pinot noir from Aÿ, Mailly, Verzy and Rilly, and Chardonnay from the most prized terroirs of Cramant, Avize and Le Mesnil. Sources are not fully consistent regarding the proportions of the varieties: some distribution descriptions state 50% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot noir and 5% Pinot meunier, whereas Aldo Fiordelli's note for jamessuckling.com indicates a blend of 50% Pinot noir, 45% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot meunier. The rosé colour is obtained by a method typical for this cuvée – skin maceration takes place before combining with the Chardonnay. The wine matures for a minimum of 6 years.
In the glass it is a luminous, pale rosé. The producer describes the aromatic profile as distinctly fruity-floral: notes of red fruits – pomegranate, raspberry – and black fruits such as crème de cassis. On the palate subtle floral accents of orange blossom and elderflower appear, with a tone of raspberry fruit. James Suckling's note adds further layers: a delicate and complex nose with cotton candy, roasted nuts, milk chocolate and red fruit, with fine, precise bubbles, crisp acidity and a fruity, chewy finish.
The producer himself emphasises the duality of this style. Belle Époque Rosé is a fascinating cuvée – subtle and delicate, yet warm and enveloping, as though wrapping in silk; in the glass a sparkling, luminous pale rosé. According to Richard Juhlin the wine has clear ageing potential – in his assessment it will reach full maturity no earlier than 2028. Dishes with a pronounced structure make good pairings: composed of Chardonnay and Pinot noir, it pairs well with dishes such as tuna or duck breast.