Champagne Dom Pérignon 1996

Appearance:

• Golden yellow with a brilliant shine, showing some maturity but still retaining youthful vibrance. Fine, delicate bubbles rise steadily.

Nose:

• Complex and Evolving: Starts with intense aromas of brioche, toasted almonds, and hazelnuts, followed by subtle hints of white flowers and candied citrus.

• Minerality: A chalky, flinty minerality is evident, characteristic of the region’s terroir.

• Oxidative Notes: A touch of honey and baked apple showcases the wine’s evolution with age, adding depth and richness.

Palate:

• Rich and Structured: Full-bodied and powerful, yet finely balanced with refreshing acidity. The rich texture is complemented by notes of citrus, ripe stone fruits, and spice.

• Toasty and Nutty: Layers of toasted bread, butter, and nuts (hazelnuts and almonds) integrate seamlessly with fruit flavors.

• Lingering Minerality: The finish is long and persistent, with a lingering sense of freshness and minerality that echoes the chalky soils of the region.

Finish:

• Long and Complex: A remarkable and lasting finish with hints of grapefruit, minerals, and a touch of salinity. The wine shows exceptional aging potential and structure.

The 1996 vintage is known for its high acidity and intensity, making it one of the most revered vintages in Champagne. It’s a wine that can continue to develop for years to come but is also showing beautifully now.

Wine Spectator: 96/100

• Praised for its balance of richness and elegance, along with complex aromas of toast, minerals, and dried fruits.

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 98/100

• Described as a powerful yet harmonious champagne with exceptional aging potential. Parker highlighted its intense minerality and structure.

• James Suckling: 97/100

• Commended for its depth, vibrant acidity, and silky texture. He emphasized its long, impressive finish.

• Vinous (Antonio Galloni): 97/100

• Galloni highlighted the wine’s brilliant balance, rich fruit, and persistence, noting the vintage’s ability to age gracefully.

The 1996 vintage of Dom Pérignon is widely regarded as one of the finest in recent history, and it continues to show great development with further aging potential.