Tuesday, March 22, 2011

The Perrier-Jouët Journey (I): Bi-Centenaire

Paris has been exciting since I arrived two days ago. As a guest of Perrier-Jouët, I am very honored to be part of its 200th Anniversary celebration. I will be writing a series to share with you the amazing Perrier-Jouët adventure. With lots to share, perhaps I should start by talking about its limited edition champagne launched for its bicentennial.

This is perhaps a worldwide exclusive as I was among the first to see the 'Bi-Centenaire', the first "Living Legacy" champagne ever created. A masterpiece of oenological, artistic and epicurean pleasure, it also showcases a work of art by the acclaimed American artist, Daniel Arsham (more on Daniel in another entry).

A unique creation in the form of twin sculptures cradling the two exceptional magnums.


Making champagne is an art and Perrier-Jouët chose one of the most promising young visual artists of his generation, American Daniel Arsham, to design an exclusive work inspired by Perrier-Jouët’s conception of nature.


Launched in limited editions of 100, every set is signed and numbered.



'Bi-Centenaire' - the twin sculptures designed to hold two magnums of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 1998.


In honour of its 200 year-old legacy, Perrier-Jouët launches the first champagne heirloom: “Perrier-Jouët Bi-Centenaire”. It is a legacy with two stories. The first takes place in the present: a champagne-lover treats himself to a magnum of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 1998. The second takes place in the future: many years later, his descendant in turn enjoys a magnum of Belle Epoque 1998 that has been passed down through the years in his inheritance.


There is a private cellar dedicated to the second magnums of Belle Epoque waiting to be claimed by their future owners (can be stored up to 100 years). Strictly aligned within a specially-dedicated area, the bottles will rest grandly at a perfect temperature and humidity. (more on my visit to the cellar in another entry)


The buyer of the work makes an appointment for their first visit, which will include a private meeting with Chef de Cave Hervé Deschamps (more on Hervé in another entry). After a personal tour of Perrier-Jouët and an immersion in its history, the owner will be invited to a tasting of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 1998, who will then present them with an authentic certificate of ownership & unique access to the private cellar containing the second magnum destined for their descendant.


The safe within the cellar will hold the authentic certificate of ownership and the life journal containing personal messages left for the owner of the 2nd magnum.

Why Vintage 1998? Hervé chose this vintage as it is a great year and meets all the conditions to be a truly great wine with aging potential.


Perrier-Jouët is projecting itself into the future with the incredible power of human emotion, in line with its remarkable 200 years of history and legacy. I am so moved by the philosophy that I have expressed my interest to purchase the “Perrier-Jouët Bi-Centenaire”. For me, my legacy is the marital union of my partner and I. My intention is to give my husband the privilege to enjoy a priceless experience at Maison Perrier-Jouët, like what I have experienced this week. Perhaps the 2nd magnum will be for the celebration of our 10th wedding anniversary...

All photos by Perrier-Jouët. For more information, please visit www.perrier-jouet.com


Friday, March 18, 2011

Top Picks At Alldressedup - Spring 2011



Yesterday was a good shopping day as I found two lovely dresses at my favourite local label - alldressedup. I have been a fan for a couple of years now and my love affair with it seems to be getting stronger. What I love about alldressedup is its directional designs, quality fabric and finishing, but most all - the clothes fit me well.

Here's what in store for Spring. Do check it out at the boutiques if you are in Singapore. For those who are not, you can purchase the pieces on www.shopthemag.com (a new shopping website stocking the best Asian designers) or www.net-a-porter.com.


It was love at first sight for me with this silk organza dress and I had to buy it. The prints kinda remind me of Peter Pilotto. What you can't tell from the pic is that the dress has a fitted nude lining under the linen printed sheath.


Bought this amazing two-way asymmetrical dress too. What's clever about the design is you can wear it front as back, and vice versa.


Here are the other looks worth checking out.













I love the jewellery Vice & Vanity designed for alldressedup. I bought myself a cuff and will be rocking it in Paris. :)

To view the full collection, please visit www.alldressedup.com

Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 2004



Last Friday, I had the privilege to be among the first few in the world (I was told Singapore was the first city for the launch) to have a taste of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 2004 at a media dinner held at Le Saint Julien. What made it even more special was the fact that the bottles were hand carried in by the Chef de Cave - Hervé Deschamps himself. What an honour!



For those unfamiliar with Perrier-Jouët, Belle Epoque is its prestigious vintage champagne range. Many might recognise the beautiful bottle adorned with Japanese anemones that was designed in 1964 by Emile Gallé, master glass artist, leader of the Nancy School and the driving force behind Art Nouveau.


The original bottle that was hand painted by Emile Gallé


Another factor that made it a special evening was that Le Saint Julien was closed specially for the private dinner. The magnificent view of the Marina Bay waterfront complemented the elegant decor created specially by Edith, wife of Chef Julien, who is also the maître d'.

A beautiful Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque display greeted me as I entered Le Saint Julien.


Perrier-Jouët even has its own candles to add the finishing touch to the lovely table setup.


The Flower Table completes the art of champagne tasting. Click on this link if you would like to discover more about it.


Lucky me! I got to savour the entire Perrier-Jouët portfolio.


The menu was created by Chef Julien Bompard to pair perfectly with Perrier-Jouët champagnes.


My first white asparagus for the season, and paired with Grand Brut.


Lobster paired with Belle Epoque 2004


Bacon and scallop paired with Belle Epoque 2002


Simmered fillet of Brittany sole with Belle Epoque 1999


Chocolate and berries paired with Blason Rosé, a good champagne to pair with desserts.


As part of the celebration for Perrier-Jouët's 200th anniversary, I will be going to Paris this weekend to attend its bicentennial gala dinner. I will also be visiting the maison and vineyards in Epernay, Champagne region of France. Watch out for the full report in next week's blog posts.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Top Picks At Zara - March 2011

I have to say the collection at Zara this month is one of the strongest to date. From menswear-inspired tailoring to colour blocking theme, the looks could be easily mistaken for Jil Sander or Calvin Klein. Rather impressive.

Check out the inspiring ad campaign.

Monotone never looked so cool. Very Calvin Klein and Jil Sander!


This is so Uniqlo J+ ad


A good colour blocking look that is wearable.


I need to buy a leather skirt after looking at this picture.


I can't decide which I like better. The camel coloured top or the folded hems of the skinny jeans.


For some reason, this look reminds me of Tom Ford. A luxe black velvet jacket with satin trims teamed with printed silk pants.


Below are the looks that I will also be checking out.

Love the dress and the Pierre Hardy looking shoes!


Good enough for evening wear or for a chic street look.


I have not seen a lovelier shade of royal blue. I must have this pair of shorts!


More reasons to buy a red jacket.


A colour combo that I will be attempting.


What an elegant look. I need to buy the maxi skirt and the leather sandals.


Love the tulip skirt and the scooped neck tee.


I need to go shopping at Zara tomorrow. Check out the full collection at www.zara.com