Once past the lavish descriptions, the 2008 Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 emerges as an exceptional wine crafted by an outstanding winemaker.
The interplay of two historical figures, Montesquieu and Montaigne, serves as a backdrop to this wine review. While both were fond of wine, their interests generally lay in philosophy, contrasting with the practical artistry of winemakers. In the unique realm of Dom Pérignon, wine and philosophy are intertwined, particularly highlighted in the magnificent Plénitude 2 from 2008. Despite the linguistic challenges in capturing its essence, this wine proclaims its quality through its creation narrative—an eternal journey characterized by emotion and harmony.
Vincent Chaperon, the current chef de cave, is recognized for elevating Dom Pérignon’s standards since taking over in 2018. Having worked alongside Richard Geoffroy for over ten years, Chaperon was integral to the making of this acclaimed vintage. The Plénitude 2 represents a late-disgorged version of its original release, benefiting from an additional seven years on lees, monitored by lunar cycles. Given the 2008 vintage’s remarkable quality, it is anticipated that a final release, known as P3, will come approximately seven years later.
Chaperon attributes the wine’s exceptional quality to the duality of the growing season in 2008: a mix of cool, damp conditions in the first half and warmer, bright weather in the latter half. This contrasting weatherpattern contributed to a wine remarkable for its complexity and character. The lengthy aging under cork has allowed for controlled oxidation, honing the phenolic texture and enriching the wine’s structure. The blend, comprising equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, sources its fruit from a core of 300 hectares owned by LVMH exclusively for Dom Pérignon.
In promoting the new P2, Chaperon organized an exhibition at London’s Tate Modern titled “Creation Is an Eternal Journey,” which celebrates the evolution of Dom Pérignon through cultural and artistic milestones.
The tasting notes for the 2008 Plénitude 2 reveal a rich, burnished gold hue with effervescent bubbles. Aromas of red berries, verbena, and sour honey blend with notes of buttered toast, flint, and hints of iodine. The wine balances tension with a firm acidity that supports its structure, offering a broad texture and a fulfilling finish, hinting at even greater complexity as it ages.
This wine stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dom Pérignon, affirming the idea that the tasting experience is the ultimate measure of a wine’s quality.
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