Perrier Jouët Belle Epoque, Perrier Jouet 2002

Hints of burnt sugar and toffee accent this bright Champagne, along with notes of apple pie, bread dough, cream and candied lemon peel. There's a fine balance between the wine's finesse and its lively character, with a long, smoke-tinged finish. Better than previously reviewed. Drink now through 2024. 2,000 cases imported.

50% Chardonnay, 46% Pinot Noir, 4% Pinot Meunier. Dark straw. Much, much more evolved on the nose than the others. Open texture without the real density of the best 2002s. A little sweet and soft. Medium weight.