2008 Dom Perignon Brut(750ml)[RP96, JS98]

Dom Pérignon is only available as a vintage champagne and is only produced in exceptional years. Each vintage is a creation, singular and unique, that expresses both the character of the year, and the character of Dom Pérignon. After at least eight years of elaboration in the cellars, the wine embodies the perfect balance of Dom Pérignon, the Plénitude of harmony.

Weather: 2008 was dominated by grey, overcast skies – an exception in a decade characterized by bold, generous sunshine. Spring and summer rought the same lack of sunlight and absence of high temperatures. It was September that saved the vintage, belatedly and miraculously. Just when the harvest was getting underway (on September 15), the weather conditions were finally perfect: blue skies and prolonged north-northeasterly winds. Picking was spread out over a long period in order to benefit from this positive turn of events. The grapes were riper than anyone dared hope, and had truly outstanding balance. The vines were in perfect health.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: 100% Grand & Premier Cru
Grape Varieties: 50% Pinot Noir | 50% Chardonnay
Ageing: 7 years on the lees
Dosage: 5 g/L
Alcohol: 12.5%
Drink: Now to 2040+

Tasting Note: Rich fruit. Nose is quite forward, with that trade mark match-strike smokey character subtly coming through. Smokey bacon, pineapple and guava on the palate with underlying ripe lemons and bright red apples, all wrapped around a texture from long lees ageing. Finishes very fresh and light, dances on the palate with a hint of that saline and twist of bitterness which really help balance the delicacy and finish.