Dom Perignon 2018: A Legacy of Champagne Excellence

Dom Perignon, a name synonymous with luxury champagne, continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its 2018 vintage. This prestige cuvée, born from the prestigious house of Moët & Chandon, stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence. As part of the LVMH group, Dom Perignon has carved out a unique position in the world of vintage champagne.

The 2018 release upholds the legacy of this iconic label, blending Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay to create a complex and distinctive flavor profile. With nearly 60,000 cases shipped to the United States in 2017, Dom Perignon continues to be a top-selling champagne, beloved by connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Wine critics have consistently praised Dom Perignon, with about 80% of ratings from Wine Spectator scoring 90 points or higher. The 2018 vintage is no exception, earning high marks for its quality, consistency, and character. This latest offering from Dom Perignon reinforces its status as a leader in the world of luxury champagne.

Key Takeaways

• Dom Perignon 2018 continues the brand’s legacy of excellence
• The vintage blends Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay
• Dom Perignon is a top-selling champagne in the United States
• The brand consistently receives high ratings from wine critics
• Dom Perignon 2018 maintains the label’s reputation for quality and character

The Historic Legacy of Dom Perignon

The storied past of Dom Perignon dates back to the 17th century. It commences with Pierre Pérignon, a Benedictine monk who took on the role of cellar master at the Abbey of Hautvilliers in 1668. His pioneering efforts set the stage for the emergence of a renowned luxury brand.

The Benedictine Monk’s Vision

Pierre Pérignon’s groundbreaking approach transformed the art of winemaking. He introduced the use of cork stoppers, experimented with storage in chalk pits, and developed thicker bottle shapes. These innovations were foundational to the Champagne method we admire today.

Birth of the Champagne Method

The Champagne method, a hallmark of Dom Perignon, involves a second fermentation in the bottle. This process is responsible for the distinctive bubbles and intricate flavors that characterize Champagne. It showcases the monk’s unwavering commitment to creating unparalleled wines.

Evolution into a Luxury Brand

The transformation of Dom Perignon into a luxury icon commenced in 1935 with the unveiling of its 1921 vintage. The brand’s swift ascent to global acclaim was cemented by its unwavering pursuit of excellence. Today, Dom Perignon epitomizes French opulence, standing as the epitome of Champagne craftsmanship.

Dom Perignon’s dedication to quality is reflected in its accolades and widespread popularity. The brand remains steadfast in its commitment to its rich heritage, while continually pushing the boundaries of Champagne innovation.

Understanding Dom Perignon 2018 Vintage

The 2018 vintage of Dom Perignon marks a significant milestone in the brand’s storied history. It embodies the pinnacle of excellence, navigating through the complexities of modern winemaking. This vintage is a testament to the mastery of climate impact and the art of winemaking.

Dom Perignon’s 2018 vintage represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of champagne production. Since 2000, the brand has dedicated itself to showcasing the distinctiveness of each vintage. This approach allows each bottle to narrate the tale of its specific year, offering a unique perspective on the art of champagne.

The influence of climate change is evident in the 2018 vintage. The Champagne region experienced unprecedented weather patterns, affecting grape development and ripening. These conditions are the cornerstone of the 2018 vintage’s distinctive flavor profile.

The 2018 vintage remains faithful to Dom Perignon’s iconic style while embracing its singular identity. Connoisseurs can anticipate a symphony of tradition and innovation with each sip of this extraordinary champagne.

The Art of Winemaking Excellence

Dom Perignon’s winemaking techniques reflect centuries of dedication to craftsmanship. The brand’s commitment to quality starts with the selection of grapes from the finest premier and grand cru vineyards in Champagne.

Grape Selection and Blending

The heart of Dom Perignon is its blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. Each vintage’s blend is tailored to the climate, capturing the essence of nature. This meticulous selection is key to maintaining the brand’s high standards and consistency.

Vinification Process

Dom Perignon’s vinification focuses on phenolic ripeness over sugar levels. This method enhances the wine’s depth and complexity. For the rosé, gentle extraction and early racking preserve delicate flavors and aromas.

Aging and Maturation

The aging process is where Dom Perignon truly excels. The Plénitude program outlines three maturation stages. The first release is after six years, followed by P2 after 12-16 years, and P3 after 20-30 years. This extended aging allows the champagne to reach its full potential, showcasing unparalleled excellence.

The House’s Signature Style

Dom Perignon distinguishes itself in the champagne realm with a unique style. It crafts wines that boast a distinct flavor profile and aromatic complexity. Each vintage is a testament to the house’s dedication to excellence.

The Dom Perignon style is characterized by a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and subtle minerality. The wines present a tapestry of fruit, pastry, and spice notes. As they mature, a velvety richness emerges, elevating the overall taste experience.

The evolution of Dom Perignon’s rosé is noteworthy. It now boasts a deeper hue and more pronounced flavors. The inclusion of over 20% still red wine in the blend results in a bold, distinctive champagne.

The Dom Perignon style is exemplified in its vintage releases. The 2009 vintage, for instance, was celebrated with a magnum sabering at a recent event. This tradition underscores the brand’s commitment to creating unforgettable champagne experiences.

The Plénitude Program: A Unique Aging Concept

Dom Perignon’s Plénitude program exemplifies the brand’s dedication to wine aging mastery. Introduced in 2014, it presents a champagne’s transformation through three distinct maturation stages.

P1: Initial Release

The first phase, P1, introduces the champagne after at least six years of aging. It embodies the wine’s youthful energy and primary fruit notes, laying the groundwork for its evolution.

P2: Second Life

P2 emerges after 12 to 16 years, revealing a more complex profile. The champagne’s flavors and textures deepen, thanks to extended lees aging. This stage balances richness with a surprising freshness.

P3: Ultimate Maturity

The final stage, P3, is the zenith of Dom Perignon’s aging journey. After 20 to 30 years, these bottles present the vintage’s most refined and complex expression.

The Plénitude program showcases the profound impact of extended lees aging on Dom Perignon’s champagnes. Late disgorgement allows each release to reveal the wine’s evolving essence, demonstrating the brand’s expertise in harnessing time and terroir.

Vincent Chaperon’s Vision as Chef de Cave

In 2019, Vincent Chaperon assumed the role of chef de cave at Dom Perignon, ushering in a new chapter for the esteemed champagne house. His ascension came after a 13-year partnership with his predecessor, Richard Geoffroy, who had led the brand for 28 years.

Transitioning from Richard Geoffroy

Chaperon’s tenure at Dom Perignon commenced in 2005. Over the years, he was involved in thirteen harvests and declared four vintages alongside Geoffroy. This extensive background ensured a seamless transition into the chef de cave position.

Contemporary Innovations

As chef de cave, Chaperon champions winemaking innovation while honoring Dom Perignon’s heritage. His primary objectives include managing vintage legacies, embodying the brand’s vision, and upholding a commitment to vintages. He advocates for continuous evolution in winemaking, striving for an enhanced aesthetic vision with each new creation.

Under Chaperon’s stewardship, Dom Perignon continues to innovate while paying homage to its storied past. His leadership embodies a blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring the brand’s enduring success in the realm of luxury champagne.

Pairing and Serving Recommendations

Dom Perignon 2018 excels when paired with exquisite cuisine. Its intricate complexity and opulence make it adaptable for diverse culinary pairings. Seafood, aged cheeses, and even beef beautifully complement this exceptional champagne.

The 2010 Dom Pérignon stands out for special occasions. It harmonizes perfectly with premium dishes, enriching the dining experience. Its delicate bubbles and refined flavors elevate any meal to unparalleled heights.

Serving temperature is crucial for Dom Perignon. Aim for 45-50°F (7-10°C) to unveil its full flavor potential. The choice of glassware also impacts the experience. Tulip-shaped champagne flutes are ideal, as they preserve bubbles and concentrate aromas.

For those interested in wine education, WSET Level 1 and 2 classes provide invaluable insights. These courses teach the art of pairing, enhancing your appreciation of Dom Perignon and other fine wines.

Global Recognition and Ratings

Dom Perignon’s champagne production excellence is evident in its outstanding wine ratings and market performance. The brand receives widespread acclaim from both industry experts and consumers.

Expert Reviews

Wine critics frequently bestow Dom Perignon with top accolades. Bettane + Desseauve, a renowned French wine guide, awards it a perfect 5/5 score. The Revue de Vin de France commends its distinctive style and consistent quality across various vintages.

International Awards

Dom Perignon’s global appeal is underscored by its numerous awards. In the prestigious Ruinart Sommelier Challenge, two winners emerged from competitions in Tokyo and Kyoto. These achievements highlight Dom Perignon’s esteemed position in the international wine community.

Market Position

Dom Perignon holds a robust market position, even with its premium pricing. It ranks among the top-selling champagnes in the United States. The Liv-ex Champagne 50 index, which tracks the fine wine market, has seen an 85% rise over the last decade. Dom Perignon significantly contributes to this growth.

Dom Perignon’s market success transcends its flagship vintages. Investors often seek value in lesser-known years like 2003, 2004, and 2006, which exhibit steady price appreciation. This broad appeal across vintages solidifies Dom Perignon’s status as a leading luxury champagne brand.

Conclusion

Dom Perignon 2018 epitomizes luxury Champagne, reflecting centuries of winemaking mastery. This collectible wine exemplifies the brand’s dedication to excellence, merging tradition with contemporary methods. Its intricate flavor profile and potential for aging make Dom Perignon a highly coveted investment in the realm of fine wines.

The 2018 vintage upholds Dom Perignon’s legacy, producing approximately 5 million bottles annually. Each bottle is aged for a minimum of seven years on lees, resulting in a Champagne with profound aromas and a dynamic, layered finish. The combination of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from Grand Cru vineyards achieves a perfect balance of acidity, fruitiness, and oakiness.

Dom Perignon’s quality is consistently recognized by renowned wine critics. For example, the 2002 vintage garnered 97 points from James Suckling and 96 points from both Decanter and Wine Spectator. These accolades underscore why Dom Perignon is a preferred choice for collectors and connoisseurs seeking the ultimate luxury Champagne experience.