2004 Laurent-Perrier 'Cuvée Alexandra' Brut Rose Champagne

WINEMAKER'S NOTES:  A tasting of Alexandra Rose Millesime is one of those all-too-rare moments – a unique sensory experience. A delicate ring of bubbles circles the inside of the glass, enlivened by a fine, persistent stream of bubbles. The color register is anything but the usual shade of redcurrant or raspberry. Instead, what you see illuminating the lead-crystal glass is a diaphanous amber-pink. The nose of deliciously satisfying aromas of candied citrus is amplified on the palate. Next, a strong sensation of minerality structures the palate and the wine releases its tensions to deliver a succession of taste sensations. The range is wide, moving from the smoothly spicy to hints of metal, tangy fruit, and dried rose petals. But despite the obvious complexity, the senses never lose their way in this uniquely pleasurable experience.

Alexandra Rosé Millésimé surrenders up its singular personality, which is simultaneously masculine in its intensity and its powerful structure, and feminine in the infinite delicacy of its color and taste sensations. The experience is unforgettable.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Vinous - "Tasted from magnum, the 2004 Grande Cuvée Rosé Alexandra, Laurent-Perrier’s flagship Rosé is a blend of 80% Pinot Noir (on the skins) and 20% Chardonnay vinified together that has only been bottled seven times since 1982. From the very first taste, the 2004 is utterly spectacular. Rich, ample and vertical in feel, the 2004 is dazzling. Dried rose petal, star anise, tobacco, dried flowers, red berry fruit and earthy notes all grace this utterly exquisite Champagne. As good as the 2004 is today – and it is fabulous – it will be even better in another few years’ time. The 2004 has been nothing short of magnificent on both occasions I have tasted it so far."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - " Disgorged in 2012 after eight years sur lattes, the 2004 Brut Alexandra Grande Cuvée Rosé has really begun to develop some complexity after seven years on cork. Salmon-pink in hue, the wine wafts from the glass with a beautiful bouquet of blood orange, iodine, dried rose petals, aromatic bitters and tangerine. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, pure and racy, with a delicate pinpoint mousse, good concentration at the core and a long, saline finish. Readers who have had the foresight to cellar a few bottles should pop a cork or two, as this rosé is showing brilliantly."


James Suckling - "Aromas of peaches and light cherries with rust and hints of grapefruit. Earth and spice undertone. Full-bodied, fruity and spicy. Hints of black pepper. Extremely bright and creamy texture. Delicious and delicate finish."


Wine Enthusiast - "First produced in the 1987 vintage to celebrate the marriage of owner Bernard de Nonancourt’s eldest daughter, this bottling is now mature. Ripe, it still retains plenty of red fruits while also allowing the toasty character to show through. It’s a rosé that calls for food, a rich and balanced wine that is just perfect to drink now."


Decanter - "Laurent-Perrier's flagship rosé is a blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay from Grand Cru vineyards, and has been bottled only seven times since 1982. Dried flowers, rose petal, strawberry and spices appear on the succulent and elegant bouquet. There’s an engaging counterpoint between vinosity and minerality on the palate, with plenty of freshness."