Dom Pérignon : Vintage 2008

The perfect balance of a robust Dom Pérignon

The estate

Dom Pérignon champagne owes its name to Pierre Pérignon, the famous monk and cellar master of Abbey de Hautvillers in 1668, who was also known as Dom Pérignon. Legend says that Pierre Pérignon discovered what is known today as the Champagne method. As a point of interest, he taught this method to Benedictine monk, Thierry Ruinart, in 1669, which allowed Ruinart to become the first Champagne house in 1729. Since 1st January 2019, Vincent Chaperon has succeeded Richard Geoffroy as Dom Pérignon’s Cellar Master.

The wine

As with every year, the Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 revitalises the brand’s typical exceptionality while, at the same time, actively participating in the quest to produce a perfect champagne.

Since time shapes the essence of Dom Pérignon champagne, its invaluable bottles are only revealed after many years spent in the house’s cool and darkened ancient chalk pits (crayères). The ripening of the bottles on lees allows Dom Pérignon champagne to gradually transform, enhancing itself through completing various plenitudes and revealing the spirit which drives Dom Pérignon’s DNA.

It is, therefore, after over eight years of production that the Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 is being revealed. The first plenitude in the wine’s windows of expression, Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 appears with a perfect balance and a dazzling harmony.

The vintage

The contrasting weather of the 2008 vintage makes it stand out as a slightly different year during a sunny decade. However, thanks to September’s arrival, a miracle occurred. The harvests, which began on 15 September, were spread out to ensure the picking of the best of the fruits at the right time, with a perfect state of health and berry ripeness.

Blend

The Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 is made from a secret blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Tasting

For Richard Geoffroy, the great Cellar Master who began his tenure at the house in 1990, "The 2008 Dom Pérignon vintage is liberated from a too-literal interpretation of Champagne tradition."

Nose

Displaying a bright fruitiness and great complexity, the aromatic bouquet opens with delicate floral notes, tangy notes of citrus and stone fruit as well as notes of anise and mint, which add a beautiful freshness. The second nose highlights the fineness of spicy and woody notes, evoking a roasting sensation.

Palate

The Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 reveals a perfect synchronisation between its aromatic expression and its character on the palate. Precise, refined and tonic, the wine deploys a hearty generosity where fruit prevails and is enhanced by a lively acidity. The finish is flavourful, with a lasting length and smoky notes.

An exceptional champagne which character is revealed in the most daring food and wine pairings by bringing out its contrasting character. A unique vintage reminiscent of the legendary year of 1996, with a perfect balance between strength, elegance and freshness, hallmark characteristics of great Dom Pérignons. The Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008 is already iconic.