Dom Perignon Oenotheque 1973

The house Moët & Chandon

History

Dom Pérignon Champagne is named after a historical figure of the same name. Dome Pérignon was a Benedictine monk (1638–1715), and is often called the inventor of Champagne. However, he did not invent the method of Champagne.

In fact, his role at the abbey was the opposite. He was tasked with finding an approach to avoid a second fermentation after some bottles had exploded and the production was lost. Although Dom Pérignon did not create the Champagne method, it transformed the viticulture and winemaking techniques in the Champagne region.

In 1937, Moët & Chandon acquired the Dom Pérignon brand for their Cuvée Prestige. Famous personalities, celebrities and members of the British royal family often select this Champagne. Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer chose Dom Perignon for their wedding in 1981.

Technology

Dom Pérignon is a Cuvée Prestige. It’s a rarity and a millésime; a unique piece of art from the finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes of the same vintage.

Every vintage is aged on lees until the Chef de Cave decides the Champagne is ready for release. After this, each bottle goes through the “Plénitude” concept, with three releases at different stages, allowing the Champagne to express different aspects of the harvest.

The first Plénitude (P1) is achieved after eight years. The Dom Pérignon Vintage and Rosé Vintage are the epitome of harmony and balance. The Plénitude 2 (P2) is achieved after fifteen years of ageing. It produces a deep, rich, and complex Champagne with generous flavours and the capacity for a long life. Plénitude 3 (P3) occurs between 30 and 40 years after harvest, with at least 20 years of lees ageing.

Champagne

Champagne region is located in France, 150 kilometres east of Paris. It is divided into 319 cru (communes). The production of Champagne has a controlled appellation (AOC), which must meet the law defined in 1927. Climate, soil and relief are the three main constituents of the Champagne terroir, creating a mosaic of micro-terroirs, each with unique characteristics.

Champagne vineyards are located on the hills and interspersed with strips of forest, surrounding cosy villages. The hills are ideal for planting vines, rather than the valleys, because the slope promotes uniform and intense sunlight. Also, the slopes in Champagne mostly face south, southeast and east, which also helps the vines get the optimal amount of sun. This is why in the 17th century, Champagne was called “wine from the hills”.

Champagne soils are predominantly limestone, and it's one of the most prestigious soil types. The deposits that come to the surface are also 75% limestone (with the remainder being chalk and marl). It encourages drainage and adds a particular mineral flavour to some Champagne wines.

Dom Perignon Oenotheque 1973

Starting price

The house Moët & Chandon

History

Technology

Champagne

Dom
Perignon Oenotheque
1973