Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle Les Réserves Iteration N°20
Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle Les Réserves Iteration N°20 represents the pinnacle of prestige Champagne; a singular blend of three exceptional vintages – 1999 (60%), 1997 (20%), and 1996 (20%) – that has undergone 21 years of meticulous lees aging. This is the second ever release of Les Réserves, following the acclaimed N°17, and is only available in magnum.
With its extraordinary balance of power and elegance, Les Réserves N°20 has been met with critical acclaim, having been awarded 100 points by James Suckling and 19/20 points by Jancis Robinson, who finds it “difficult to see how anyone would be disappointed by this, the essence of Grand Siecle.” This long-aged cuvée showcases the House’s mastery in blending Grand Cru terroirs, crafting a Champagne that transcends individual vintages and sites.
Why Buy?
- Exceptional Pedigree: A blend of three Grand Vintages – 1999 (60%), 1997 (20%), and 1996 (20%)
- Unparalleled Provenance: Aged in magnum under natural cork for over two decades in their cellars.
- Rare & Exclusive: Only the second release in the history of Laurent-Perrier’s Les Réserves series.
- Grand Cru Vineyards: Chardonnay from Avize, Cramant, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger; Pinot Noir from Ambonnay, Bouzy, Mailly & Tours-sur-Marne.
- Meticulous Winemaking: 54% Chardonnay, 46% Pinot Noir, aged 21 years, disgorged July 2022, dosage 7g/L.
From the Critics...
100 Points, James Suckling
“Flinty, even smoky on the nose, with preserved lemon, quince, smoked almond, sea urchin, olive, and white pepper, as well as mushroom, pie crust, and salted caramel. Energetic, yet with a dense and oily palate. Sleek bubbles. So many layers to ponder over, with a long, umami finish. It’s Montrachet in nature and greatness. Love the roundness to the texture. Unique.”
98 Points, Decanter
“Subtle chamomile and dried bergamot peel notes appear first on the nose, followed by a lift of lemon and stone. This is a sublimation of citrus, herb, and chalk. The palate has edges of beeswax but with an incredibly sprightly and fine mousse and utter freshness. A picture of ageless grace, so zesty, creamy, bright, and so very chalky…”
19 Points, Jancis Robinson
“Extremely vivacious while still being bone dry. Pungent with a hint of caramel but also lime – that’s how broad the spectrum of flavours is. Very, very complete. Satisfying, revitalising – what I’d call a sore-throat wine, so intense is its finish. Difficult to see how anyone would be disappointed by this, the essence of Grand Siècle.”
95 Points, Antonio Galloni
“The NV Grande Cuvée Grand Siècle No. 20 Les Resérves (magnum) is a Champagne of density and power, one where the elements have become wonderfully fused together over time such that nothing in particular stands out. Instead, the wine’s overall balance is what stands out most…”
More on Laurent-Perrier
Founded in 1812 in Tours-sur-Marne, Laurent-Perrier has evolved from a family-run business into one of Champagne’s most celebrated houses. The estate was shaped by visionary leaders, including Mathilde-Émilie Perrier, who introduced the pioneering “Grand Vin Sans Sucre” in 1889, and Bernard de Nonancourt, who revolutionized the brand’s global presence with a focus on freshness, elegance, and purity. Today, under the stewardship of Lucie Pereyre de Nonancourt, Laurent-Perrier continues its legacy of innovation.
A pioneer in winemaking, Laurent-Perrier was among the first to adopt stainless steel fermentation in the 1970s, enhancing aromatic precision and vibrancy. Their meticulous assemblage technique sources grapes from 319 villages, including 17 Grands Crus, ensuring a refined and consistent style. Each vineyard is vinified separately, providing the Cellar Master with a diverse palette to craft blends that embody the house’s signature elegance. The house is also renowned for its maceration expertise, particularly in crafting its iconic Cuvée Rosé.
