Perrier-Jouët is unveiling the Cuvée Belle Epoque 2002, the first vintage of the new millennium.

To celebrate the launch of the House’s inaugural vintage of the 21st Century, Perrier-Jouët opened its cellar doors to a one-of-a-kind tasting that brought together 10 of the world’s top wine and champagne experts.

These aficionados tasted 20 iconic vintages from the House’s own cellars, from the oldest vintage in Champagne, the Perrier-Jouët 1825, to the first vintage of the new millennium.

This private event, which took place earlier this year, underlined the consistency of the House style and the excellence of its craftsmanship over the last two centuries.

Commenting on the latest vintage, Perrier-Jouët cellar master Hervé Deschamps said: “The 2002 is intense yet delicate with a fine balance of structure and acidity. It is the epitome of charm and elegance, reflecting the Chardonnays of Cramant and the Pinot Noirs of Mailly that have gradually become the hallmarks of the House style.”

Perrier-Jouët constantly seeks to bring an aesthetic and artistic dimension to the House and its champagnes.

The bottle that the Belle Epoque is produced in was originally designed by Emile Galle in the nineteenth century and the company has developed its maison in Epernay as homage to Galle and other Art Nouveau artists.

This year, to celebrate the release of the Cuvée Belle Epoque 2002, the House embarked on a creative collaboration with gifted Japanese art photographer Makiko Takehara, giving rise to an artistic interpretation of 20 of the House’s legendary vintages, from the oldest in Champagne, the PJ 1825, to the first of the new millennium.

Makiko Takehara’s compositions provide a singularly artistic perspective of each vintage, turning champagne into a work of art.

The photographer observed: "Champagne Perrier-Jouët is unique in so successfully combining the art of champagne-making with encouraging artistic creativity. Having supported the arts since its establishment in 1811, Perrier-Jouët has a highly regarded artistic heritage."