History

Dom Pérignon, named after the Benedictine monk who made important contributions to the quality and production of Champagne wine, was first produced in 1921 and released for sale in 1936. The brand is owned by Moët & Chandon but operates independently. The 2015 vintage represents a triumph over a challenging year marked by extreme weather conditions, showcasing the house's expertise in vintage champagne production.

Manufacturing Method

The 2015 vintage follows Dom Pérignon's strict vintage-only policy. Only the best grapes are selected through rigorous sorting. The wine is made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with each variety vinified separately. After the first fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle and ages on lees for a minimum of eight years before release. Each vintage is created to express the specific character of that year.

Origin

Produced in the Champagne region of France, the grapes come exclusively from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. The 2015 vintage primarily sources from historic vineyards in Hautvillers, Aÿ, and Bouzy for Pinot Noir, and Cramant, Avize, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger for Chardonnay.

Taste Profile

The 2015 vintage opens with complex aromas of white flowers, citrus, and stone fruits, complemented by subtle mineral notes. The palate reveals layers of white peach, nectarine, and citrus zest, enhanced by hints of toasted almonds and brioche. The wine shows remarkable tension between ripeness and freshness, with a precise, mineral-driven finish. The mousse is fine and persistent, contributing to the wine's elegant texture and length.

Technical Details

The blend is approximately 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay, though exact proportions are adjusted based on the vintage conditions. The 2015 vintage was characterized by a hot, dry summer followed by favorable conditions during harvest, resulting in grapes with excellent maturity and balance. Dosage is minimal at around 5g/L, allowing the wine's intrinsic qualities to shine.