NV Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle #27

Disgorged in January 2025 with a dosage of seven grams per liter, the forthcoming NV Grand Siècle N°27 already demonstrates considerable promise. A blend of the 2015, 2013 and 2012 vintages—predominantly anchored in the youngest—it draws from eight villages, comprising 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, with an intentional emphasis on Chardonnay to counterbalance the concentration of Pinot Noir. The 2015 imparts expressiveness, echoing the 2012, while the cool, late-ripening 2013 contributes freshness and cut. Unfurling in the glass with aromas of pear, peach, lemon confit and freshly baked bread, framed by a subtle smoky reduction, it is full-bodied and concentrated, built around a generous and charming core of fruit, underpinned by tangy acidity driving toward a long, resonant finish. Slightly fleshier and broader shouldered than the Grand Siècle N°24 tasted alongside, it indicates yet another distinguished Grand Siècle in the making.

Impressively aromatic, showing honeysuckle, violets and lavender with bread dough and just a hint of light caramel as well as dried apples, cooked pears and tarte tatin. Reductive with graphite, stone and iodine. Some chalk too. Full-bodied but not at all heavy, turning almost weightless. Nine years on the lees and 7 g/L dosage give energy, length and form. Goes on for minutes. This will age beautifully but is already fascinating, evolving in the glass.