Are you a Champagne enthusiast looking to acquire some of the best vintages? Dom Pérignon is considered one of the world’s finest and most sought-after champagnes, and it has become increasingly popular over recent years.
The right vintage can make all the difference in terms of flavor and experience, so we’re here today to present our selection of some of the best Dom Pérignon vintages. With this guide in hand (or glass!), let’s explore what makes these special wines standout from others on offer!
Overview of the Dom Pérignon Brand
Dom Pérignon has been a revered name in the world of Champagne for centuries, beginning generations ago with 17th century Benedictine monk and cellar master, Dom Pierre Pérignon, at the Abbey of Hautvillers. Known as the spiritual father of Champagne, his pioneering winemaking techniques still shape the Champagne industry today, giving us an unparalleled drinking experience.
His pruning practices and dedication to viticulture propelled him to create Champagne of superior quality and finesse. He even went as far as to develop a technique that allowed him to make white wine from black and red grapes.
This was combined with his signature assemblage approach, a blending method designed to maximize taste and aroma by combining different types of wines in an exact ratio. Dom Pérignon initially had quite a struggle to persuade the growers to give him grapes rather than grape juice. The finest grapes are selected as part of the pre-assemblage stage with 3 levels: single vineyards, single village and different regions.
Dom Pérignon continues to be celebrated among connoisseurs today. The characteristic Dom Pérignon style is minimalistic, and of less is more.
Vincent Chaperon, Chef de Cave has worked for several years on the Dom Pérignon stoppers and oxygen permeability during maturation. He finds that natural aged cork is ideal to make the best wine.
A Few of the Best Dom Pérignon Vintages
Firstly, it’s important to know that Dom Pérignon Champagne is only available as a vintage. In the rare years where the winemaker does not consider the quality to be fine enough, there is no release.
Thanks to the brand’s attention to detail, vintages of Dom Pérignon were created that are still considered among the best today. All Dom Pérignon Champagne matures for a minimum of 8 years before release in order to make the vintages consistent.
Whether it’s Champagne Brut or Rosé, you can trust that when you enjoy a bottle of Dom Pérignon you are savoring something truly special.
Dom Pérignon Vintage 2013 – A Fresh Expression of Chardonnay
We were fortunate to attend the release of Dom Pérignon 2013 with Chef de Cave Vincent Chaperon. Here are our tasting notes and Dom Perignon vintage ratings.
The 2013 vintage had a very cold Winter and then a rainy Spring, with late budding and the driest Summer for many seasons. It was a harvest picked when there wasn’t so much sun, which gave a good balance of acidity.
On first impression, this elegant wine shows a very smooth and simple flavour profile. Vincent uses the French word épure to describe it, translating as streamlined or pure. This vintage guides you from the attack to the finish.
A sip of vintage 2013 delivers a delightful fusion of mellow fruit flavors; apricot, orange blossom, mint and cardamom rise to the forefront making it an exceptionally unique iteration among vintage Champagne selections.
Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003 – A Refined Elegance with Complexity
The fine wine that is Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003 has a timeless elegance and deep complexity. Expertly crafted from only the best vineyards, this vintage displays a delicate balance of structure, crisp acidity, depth and creamy texture.
As a true expression of excellence, it’s no surprise that it is one of the most sought-after vintage years. Truly rare yet incomparably rewarding, Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003 is quite simply an unforgettable fine wine experience.
Dom Perignon Vintage 2002 – The Grand Cru of Pinot Noir
Dom Pérignon’s 2002 vintage is best known for its delicate, perfectly balanced and persistent Pinot Noir flavor. Hailed as the ‘Grand Cru of Pinot Noir’, this wine has become a favorite at special occasions thanks to its smooth taste, lasting sheen, and excellent structure.
Amongst the best vintages of Dom Pérignon, the 2002 provides an unforgettable sparkling wine experience, with perfect harmony and balance.
Dom Pérignon Vintage 1996 – An Impressive Blend for Gourmet Pleasure
Dom Pérignon Vintage 1996 is widely renowned to be one of the best years available when searching for the best Champagne. This prestige cuvée was carefully crafted over an extended period, resulting in a true gourmet pleasure.
This exquisite vintage year stands out due to its complex cross of dark berries and winter fruits complemented by fresh ginger notes. Its powerful character is a treat for the world’s most refined palates.
Dom Pérignon Vintage 1990 – An Authentic Expression of Terroir and Power
For wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, Dom Pérignon Vintage 1990 is considered an exceptional expression of terroir and intensity. The distinctive composition features a subtle blend of intense Pinot Noir grapes and acidic Chardonnay grapes that creates a hefty yet smooth mouth feel.
With the combination of both steel oak barrels used to ferment the grape juice and several years worth of ageing in bottle giving it its complexity, vintage 1990 takes pride in its massive aromas and luscious textures. The enticing flavors offer scents of tropical fruits such as pineapple intermingling with rose, adding another layer dynamic to this treasured vintage wine.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dom Pérignon Vintages
The amazing vintages of Dom Pérignon have established themselves as legendary Champagnes with complex, gustatory nuances that range from the fresh expression of Chardonnay to the unique style of grand cru Pinot Noir. From the 2013 vintage to the 1985, each one offers something that can be exciting and rare.
If you’re looking for the best luxury Champagne brands, then you’re sure to enjoy Dom Pérignon’s distinctive qualities. There are many vintages that are sure to tantalize your palate and help make any celebratory occasion unforgettable and truly enjoyable.
And if you happen to be visiting the Champagne region of France, Vincent informs us that there is a cave that was used by Dom Pérignon himself that will be restored and included in walking tours. If you enjoyed this article be sure to read our other wine articles too.
