Moët & Chandon Cuvée Dom Pérignon 2009 with OC

Moët & Chandon Cuvée Dom Pérignon 2009

Vintage characteristics and special features

The Dom Pérignon 2009 ranks amongst the house’s most exceptional vintages, as it was the first in Dom Pérignon’s history not to be released chronologically . The warmer and riper 2009 vintage was released before the more classic, cooler 2008 vintage.

The 2009 wine-growing year in Champagne began with a harsh winter and a mild, rainy spring. Storms in July caused challenges in the vineyard, but a perfect August with uninterrupted hot and dry weather allowed the grapes to ripen perfectly . According to reports, the key to the high quality was the deliberate decision by cellar master Richard Geoffroy to postpone the harvest. They waited for the welcome September rains to preserve the grapes’ natural acidity and thus create the perfect balance between body and structure .

The Dom Pérignon 2009 cuvée is a traditional blend of Champagne’s two finest grape varieties: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Tasting notes (aroma & flavour)

On the nose, the Dom Pérignon 2009 is complex and inviting:

• Primary aromas: Ripe white and yellow fruit aromas of apple, white peach, nectarine, guava and exotic fruits such as mango dominate .

• Citrus & spicy notes: These are complemented by aromas of grapefruit zest, mandarin and a hint of liquorice.

• Autolysis & toasty notes: The long ageing in the cellar lends the champagne classic notes of brioche, vanilla, almond, marzipan, coffee and a hint of cocoa .

On the palate, the 2009 is full-bodied and fleshy with an impressively fine and silky texture. Despite its richness and opulence, characteristic of this warm vintage, the wine possesses an invigorating freshness and a finely woven acidity. The finish is long, characterised by a pleasant saltiness, and leaves a lasting mineral impression . Richard Geoffroy himself described the texture as not creamy, but silky.

Critics’ reviews (selection)

The Dom Pérignon 2009 received outstanding ratings from leading wine publications, which underline its quality and distinctive character.

Drinkability and ageing potential

The Dom Pérignon 2009 was cellared for around eight years at the house before its release. Even in its youth, it is already unusually open and approachable, which sets it apart from other, more austere vintages . Despite its early drinking maturity, the wine possesses sufficient concentration and structure to mature over many years. Experts recommend a drinking window from now until at least 2040, and some reviews even extend as far as 2049 .

Price and availability

During our research, we found varying price figures, which depend heavily on bottle size and the distribution channel. An overview with detailed source references can be found at the end of this report. Here are a few examples (as at the time of research):

• A recent auction bid for a single bottle was estimated at around 270 USD (approx. 250 EUR).

• One online retailer listed the 0.75-litre bottle at 160.65 euros including VAT (though it was listed as sold out).

• At another retailer, the bottle (0.75l) was listed at 269.00 euros.

Pairs well with...

Thanks to its structure and richness, the Dom Pérignon 2009 is a versatile companion to fine dining. It pairs superbly with:

• lobster, scallops and sweetbreads

• Roast poultry

• High-end sushi and truffle-infused delicacies

• Fruity desserts, such as those with fresh strawberries