2012 Laurent-Perrier Millesime Brut, Champagne

Light-mid yellow, pastry/bakery and gently toasted aromas, which accord with the rich savoury flavours, nicely balanced to a dry finish, with line and length and harmony. Totally satisfying Champagne. Drink 2023–2028

96 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com Sep 2023

2012 is the 30th opus of this cuvée. Since 1938, and the acquisition of Laurent-Perrier by the Nonancourt family, it has been crafted to be a subtle balance between ‘the house style and the vintage style,’ according to Michel Fauconnet, Laurent-Perrier’s chef de caves. The Pinot Noir, which comprises half the blend and which Fauconnet describes as very ‘powerful’, is sourced from five villages: Bouzy, Verzy, Aÿ, Mailly, and for the first time in the history of this cuvée, Rilly-la-Montagne, which is not a grand cru village. The Chardonnay, which makes up the other half of the blend, is sourced from the villages of Le-Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Cramant and Chouilly. ‘The year 2012 was characterised by successive climatic accidents. There was a major winter frost as well as a spring frost, not to mention 10 or so episodes of hail, causing significant damage. A hailstorm on the seventh of June caused extensive damage in various villages,’ said Laurent-Perrier. In spite of this, the dry and sunny summer brought about a beautiful maturity. With an energetic yet bright bouquet, the Laurent-Perrier 2012 possesses gorgeous aromas of orchard fruits, herbs, lemon and spices, with a hint of menthol. Calcareous on the palate, the structure is medium- to full-bodied, with a laser-like texture and a long and penetrating finish. It is undeniably one of the frank successes of the vintage, and while it has no need for further ageing, it may surprise us even further in the future.

93 points Yohan Castaing decanter.com

Elegant array of lemons, slate, biscuits, oyster shells, croissants and brioche. Precise and focused on the palate, with sharp acidity and tight, fine bubbles. Pure and youthful for now. 50% chardonnay and 50% pinot noir. Dosage 8g/L. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com July 2022

White gold in colour with a fine sparkle. A flowery nose of great complexity, with notes of citrus and white peaches. A wine that is very present with a lively attack and great finesse with good minerality and notes of grapefruit.

Founded in 1812, Laurent-Perrier is recognised throughout the world as one of the finest of Champagne Houses. Now more than ever, the Nonancourt family’s values guide the Laurent-Perrier team. An independent spirit has always been the driving force behind the creative winemaking, which has led to a unique and highly successful range of champagnes. They are produced by a team led by Michel Fauconnet, chef de cave, and his predecessor Alain Terrier, who is recognised as one of the greatest winemakers in Champagne.

Comprising Chardonnay 50% & Pinot Noir 50%. Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims: Ay, Verzy, Verzenay, Tours-sur-Marne, Bouzy. Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs: Chouilly, Cramant, Avize and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger.