Thanks to Johnny for this rare find and nice photos!

Belle Epoque 1985 Brut Champagne by Perrier-Jouet

Grape proportions: 45% PN, 5% PM, 50% CH

Tasted in Dec. 2009

As my buddy Johnny tells me how difficult it is now to find a bottle of Belle Epoque 1985, I can fully understand: famous and cheerful as Belle Epoque cuvees, they are mostly drunk young -- only the hard-core connoisseurs know too well the amazing ageing potential of (the fine vintages of) this seemingly delicate cuvee…

Bearing above in mind, the 24-year-old still surprises us! Though this bottle has lost its fizz, the colour is insanely youthful – pale, bright golden robe!

Initially the nose has an imprint of toffee-caramel, then giving way to subtle notes of nut oil, white chocolate, vanilla and toast. While the nose shows her age, the first attack on the palate is a sharp contrast – fresh and airy, with still young fruit of tangerine and lemon, though the mid palate is a bit hollow… Just as we worried about her vulnerability, she gradually comes back to herself in about 15 minutes, and then keeps getting better for 2 good hours after uncorking! The palate grows fuller, more rounded and creamy, with citrus fruit and butterscotch most distinguishable, then finally evolves towards candied fruit. In the meantime, the nose gradually exhibited nutty depth and honeyed, buttery charm (a bit Krug-like, but more delicate and subtle).

The persistent delicacy of this 24-year-old bottle, despite the loss of fizz, is a true testimony of Perrier Jouet’s grand Chardonnay grapes from Cramant – the backbone of Belle Epoque’s fine reputation!

What a lovely pair!