The art of blending champagne
At Perrier-Jouët, the Chardonnay grapes are hand-picked then delicately pressed, plot by plot, in order to preserve their aromatic profile and delicate freshness. With the addition of natural yeasts, the grape juice is transformed into a still white wine. Working with the 50 crus at her disposal, cellar master Severine Frerson then begins the process of blending the different cuvées, incorporating reserve wines as and when they are needed. This is an extraordinarily nuanced exercise, demanding utmost precision.
A demanding grape variety
For more than two centuries, Maison Perrier-Jouët has been exploring and revealing the many facets of Chardonnay through its irresistibly elegant blends. This unique know-how allows us to create infinite variations on the floral aromas and nuanced textures which have come to define the House’s signature style. Each and every cuvée is complex and harmonious, serving as a testament to the endlessly subtle charms of Chardonnay, the emblematic grape variety of Maison Perrier-Jouët.
Vintage champagne
If Séverine Frerson detects the potential for an exceptional year when tasting the still wines from the latest harvest, then she may decide to declare a new vintage. Defined by their capacity to improve with age, these rich, complex champagnes are the quintessential expression of Maison Perrier-Jouët’s unique style and expertise.
Chardonnay in all its splendor
Chardonnay is the House’s signature grape, prized for its freshness and finesse. Nevertheless, it remains the most delicate of the region’s grape varieties. Maison Perrier-Jouët has developed an unrivalled expertise in the cultivation of this noble grape, and was the first House to release single-varietal cuvées way back in the 1920s, long before such champagnes became known as “Blanc de Blancs”.
Looking to the future, Chardonnay will more than ever be at the heart of the winemaking philosophy of Maison Perrier-Jouët, as Cellar Master Séverine Frerson gives full rein to its expressive potential, not only in the final blends, but also in the liqueurs de dosage and reserve wines.
Looking to the future, Chardonnay will more than ever be at the heart of the winemaking philosophy of Maison Perrier-Jouët, as Cellar Master Séverine Frerson gives full rein to its expressive potential, not only in the final blends, but also in the liqueurs de dosage and reserve wines.
AROMAS
chapter 4
The importance of time
The importance of time
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