A visit to Maison Perrier-Jouët offers an immersive experience that intertwines the rich heritage of champagne craftsmanship with a profound appreciation for Art Nouveau. Founded in 1811 by Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and Rose-Adélaïde Jouët, the house is situated on Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Maison Belle Époque, the meticulously restored former family residence, now serves as a living gallery, showcasing one of Europe’s most extensive private collections of French Art Nouveau.
Maison Belle Époque
The collection features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Emile Gallé, Louis Majorelle, and Hector Guimard. Gallé, a pioneer of the Art Nouveau movement, is celebrated for his 1902 creation of the Japanese white anemone motif that adorns Perrier-Jouët’s Belle Époque bottles. His works, including intricate glass pieces and furniture, are prominently displayed, reflecting his deep connection to nature and botanical themes. Majorelle’s contributions, notably his Fern Room furniture, exemplify the era’s emphasis on organic forms and fine craftsmanship. Guimard, famed for designing Paris’s Art Nouveau metro entrances, is represented through architectural elements that enhance the mansion’s aesthetic.
The Maison Belle Époque’s interiors are adorned with these Art Nouveau treasures, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature. Each room offers a curated experience, with furniture, decorative objects, and architectural details that embody the movement’s principles of elegance and natural inspiration. This artistic ambiance complements the house’s dedication to producing exceptional champagnes, particularly those highlighting the finesse of Chardonnay, the signature grape variety.
Cellars Of Maison Belle Époque
Descending into the historic cellars beneath the Maison Belle Époque, visitors encounter a labyrinth of cool, dimly lit corridors lined with thousands of bottles, each maturing gracefully to develop the house’s signature floral and intricate style. Notably, the cellars contain bottles dating back to 1825, among the oldest champagnes still available today. This subterranean experience underscores the deep connection between tradition and innovation that defines Maison Perrier-Jouët.
Ephemerā
In 2014, Maison Perrier-Jouët commissioned the Vienna-based design duo mischer’traxler to create ‘Ephemerā,’ an interactive installation unveiled at Design Miami/. This kinetic piece features a mechanical ornamental garden that responds to human presence, symbolising the delicate relationship between nature and mankind. ‘Ephemerā’ embodies the house’s ongoing dialogue between art, nature, and champagne, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and artistic collaboration.
Maison Perrier-Jouët Champagnes
Maison Perrier-Jouët’s commitment to excellence is exemplified in its production of exceptional vintage champagnes. Notable vintages include the 1966 Perrier-Jouët Cuvée Blason de France Brut, celebrated for its youthful nose and well-balanced citrus notes despite its age. The 2004 Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs Brut, adorned with Emile Gallé’s iconic Japanese anemone design, offers a fruity nose with hints of green apple and white peach, leading to a smooth palate of pear and grapefruit. The 2012 Belle Epoque Luminous Rosé presents aromas of white flowers and fresh strawberries, with a palate featuring fresh pear and lime, culminating in an elegant finish. These vintages reflect the house’s dedication to crafting champagnes that harmoniously blend tradition with contemporary refinement.
Visitors to Maison Perrier-Jouët not only explore the history of a distinguished champagne house but also engage with a cultural narrative that celebrates the synergy between viticulture and the Art Nouveau movement. The experience is a testament to the house’s enduring commitment to beauty, craftsmanship, and the natural world.
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