Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut Champagne is the ultimate expression of purity and elegance in the Brut Nature category, crafted without any added sugar to highlight its natural brilliance. This bone-dry, zero-dosage champagne is an exquisite blend of 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir, sourced from 15 prestigious crus and carefully aged for at least six years. Its crystal-clear pale hue and delicate effervescence reveal a complex nose of fresh citrus, white fruits, honeysuckle, and subtle iodine notes. On the palate, this airy and refined champagne boasts exceptional purity, with a fresh, mineral-driven finish that is long and non-saturating. Perfect for pairing with seafood, sushi, young Parmesan, or Pata Negra ham, Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is a versatile masterpiece for the most discerning tastes.
Process & Profile
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is meticulously crafted using a blend of 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir grapes from 15 prestigious crus. The grapes are selected for their perfect balance of natural sugar and acidity, allowing the wine to achieve remarkable depth without the addition of dosage (sugar). Aged for at least six years on its lees, this Champagne exemplifies the house’s commitment to quality and sophistication. Its crystal-clear character and bright yellow hue with a fine bead reveal its refined craftsmanship.
Tasting Notes
-
Appearance: Pale and crystal bright, with a fine, elegant effervescence.
-
Aroma: An intense bouquet with notes of citrus, white fruits, honeysuckle, and a hint of iodine, delivering a fresh sea-breeze-like sensation.
-
Palate: Bone-dry yet surprisingly rounded, with remarkable purity and a concentrated depth of flavors. Citrus, mineral undertones, and light biscuit notes create a harmonious balance, ending with a long, airy, and non-saturating finish.
What Makes It Special
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut was first introduced in 1981, reviving the 19th-century tradition of sugar-free Champagne, a rarity in modern winemaking. This non-dosage Champagne showcases the house’s expertise in balancing natural acidity and ripeness. Perfectly capturing the essence of grape purity, this wine is not produced every year but only in exceptional vintages, making it a sought-after delicacy among Champagne connoisseurs.
Awards & Recognition:
- 95 Points by Bettane et Desseauve
- 93 Points by James Suckling
- 94 Points by Wine Enthusiast
How to Enjoy
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is an incredibly versatile Champagne that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
-
Seafood: Oysters, sushi, and ceviche highlight its minerality.
-
Cheese: Serve with fresh goat cheese or young Parmesan for an unparalleled experience.
-
Cured Meats: Pair with Pata Negra ham for a decadent indulgence.
-
Temperature: Serve chilled at 9-10 °C (48-50 °F) for optimal enjoyment.
Its crisp, refreshing profile also makes it an excellent aperitif or the perfect companion to fine dining.
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is more than just a Champagne; it is a celebration of purity, innovation, and elegance. Unwavering in quality and tradition, it transforms every moment into an extraordinary occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut Champagne?
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is a pioneer in the *Brut Nature* category, made without any added sugar, also known as "zero dosage." This Champagne showcases the purest expression of the wine, with rigorous grape selection to ensure ideal natural balance between acidity and maturity. It was launched in 1981 and represents the brand's innovative winemaking expertise.
What grape varieties are used in Ultra Brut?
The blend consists of 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir, sourced from 15 crus. This combination provides a fresh, elegant profile with citrus and floral notes.
How is Ultra Brut different from other Champagnes in terms of sugar content?
Ultra Brut falls under the *Brut Nature* classification, containing less than 3 grams of residual sugar per liter. This makes it significantly drier than traditional Brut Champagnes, which may have up to 12 grams per liter.
What are the tasting notes for Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut?
- **Appearance:** Pale and crystal-bright in color with a fine bead.
- **Nose:** Intense and complex aromas of citrus, white fruits, honeysuckle, and a hint of iodine for freshness.
- **Palate:** Airy and delicate with remarkable purity, surprising depth, and a crisp, non-saturating finish.
What foods pair best with Ultra Brut Champagne?
Due to its bone-dry character and high acidity, this Champagne pairs excellently with seafood, sushi, oysters, pata negra ham, and light cheeses such as young Parmesan. It is versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes.
How long is Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut aged?
The Champagne is aged for a minimum of six years on lees, enhancing its complexity and depth of flavor while maintaining its freshness.
Is Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut produced every year?
No, Ultra Brut is only produced in select years with exceptional harvests where the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir achieve perfect maturity and low acidity, ensuring a natural balance without the need for sugar addition.
What temperature should Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut be served at?
It is best enjoyed chilled, between 8°C and 10°C, to fully appreciate its freshness and refined flavors.
What awards and ratings has Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut received?
The Champagne has consistently received high praise, with scores such as 94 points from Wine Enthusiast and 95 points from Bettane et Desseauve, reflecting its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Why is Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut considered environmentally innovative?
By eliminating sugar dosage and focusing on natural grape maturity, the production process highlights a meticulous and sustainable approach that emphasizes quality over intervention, aligning with modern demands for more natural wines.