The history of Maison Perrier-Jouet is a story of romance and artistic devotion, founded in 1811 by Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and Rose-Adelaide Jouet. Based in Epernay, the house quickly established a reputation for elegance and a floral style that would become its hallmark. The iconic anemone design that adorns the Belle Epoque bottles was created in 1902 by Emile Galle, a master of the Art Nouveau movement. However, the design was tucked away in the cellars for decades and only rediscovered in the 1960s, leading to the first vintage of Belle Epoque in 1964. Since then, the cuvee has represented the pinnacle of the house, emphasizing the finesse of Chardonnay from the Grand Cru vineyards of Cramant.

The 1985 growing season is remembered as a classic vintage that overcame a dramatic start. The year began with a brutally cold winter, with temperatures dropping so low that some vines suffered frost damage. However, the weather shifted beautifully in the later months. A warm, dry summer and a magnificent, sunny September allowed the grapes to reach an ideal level of maturity while maintaining high acidity. This balance is what makes the 1985 vintage so revered by collectors today. The fruit harvested was of exceptional quality, resulting in a Champagne characterized by remarkable structure, longevity, and a refined complexity. The 1985 Belle Epoque remains a testament to the resilience of the Champagne region and the meticulous craftsmanship of the house.