Champagne Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé 2005 Limited Edition by Vik Muniz

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1811 in Épernay, France, Perrier-Jouët is renowned for its elegant, floral Champagnes, particularly those highlighting Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. The Belle Epoque range, introduced in 1964, represents the house’s prestige cuvée, known for its luxurious expression of vintage Champagnes. The iconic anemone motif, designed by Art Nouveau artist Emile Gallé in 1902, adorns each Belle Epoque bottle, symbolizing the maison’s deep connection to art and nature. 

Producer and Winemaker

The 2005 Belle Epoque Rosé was crafted under the guidance of Cellar Master Hervé Deschamps, who served from 1993 to 2020. Deschamps was known for his meticulous blending techniques, aiming to capture the essence of each vintage while maintaining the house’s signature style. His approach emphasized harmony, elegance, and the expression of floral and fruity notes, ensuring that each cuvée reflected both the year’s character and Perrier-Jouët’s enduring legacy.

Vineyards and Microclimate

Grapes for this cuvée were sourced from Grand Cru vineyards in Cramant, Avize, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger for Chardonnay, and from Mailly, Aÿ, Verzy, and Rilly for Pinot Noir. The 2005 growing season experienced a cold winter and spring frosts, but a warm period from mid-June to mid-July facilitated successful flowering. A cool, damp August raised concerns, but a spectacular Indian summer in September ensured optimal ripening, particularly for the Chardonnays. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The blend comprises 50% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay, and 5% Pinot Meunier, with 11% of the Pinot Noir vinified as red wine to impart the rosé hue. Following fermentation, the wine aged for approximately six years in Perrier-Jouët’s cellars. A dosage of 8 grams per liter was added to balance the wine’s acidity and enhance its richness, resulting in a Brut style that showcases both freshness and complexity. 

Tasting Notes

The 2005 Belle Epoque Rosé exhibits a luminous salmon-pink hue. The nose reveals complex aromas of strawberries, citrus fruits, sour cherry, and orange, complemented by hints of cream and spice. On the palate, it offers a generous and voluptuous profile, with fresh notes of candied orange, white peach, and cocoa, leading to a rich, rounded finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Champagne pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Its freshness and complexity complement seafood such as lobster and langoustines, as well as richer meats like magret duck, milk-fed lamb, or game. For dessert, it harmonizes with sweet red fruit flavors, enhancing dishes like berry tarts or sorbets. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 10–12°C (50–54°F) in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to concentrate the aromas and preserve the bubbles. Allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can help it open up and reveal its full bouquet. No decanting is necessary.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with stable humidity—this Champagne can age gracefully for 10 to 15 years. Over time, it will develop additional complexity, with notes of brioche, toasted nuts, and dried fruits emerging, adding to its depth and character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

50% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay, 5% Pinot Meunier

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 94

• Wine Spectator: 95

• James Suckling: 96