In 1812 the British were doing badly against the US, but rather well against the French, who in turn were beginning to run out of luck in Russia. And there was an overture. Alphonse Pierlot thought it would be a good idea to start a Champagne house that would become Laurent-Perrier. After him, the house was run largely by a succession of lively and tough women through two world wars, prospering when possible and surviving when times were very hard.

On the return of the surviving son from WW2 Laurent-Perrier set about consolidating the stability of the House and preparing for growth. He also put in place a respect for the craft of Champagne culture and history that underpins activities today, emphasising the importance of blending. To underscore this, he introduced Champagne`s first ever multi-vintage prestige cuvee, in Grand Siecle, though vintages have been made too. Chardonnay dominated, the wines of Laurent-Perrier also include the region`s most famous rose. (CW 8/07/10)