Dom Perignon P2 Rose 1996 (750ML)

97 BH / 96 JS / 17.5 JR

Tasting note: This remains one of my favorite all-time vintages of the Oenothèque series. An elegant if highly restrained nose displays cool nuances of green apple, a variety of citrus elements and discreet floral hints along with plenty of yeast character. There is superb precision to the equally cool and restrained middle weight flavors that dance across the palate thanks to the incredibly fine mousse that is at once firm but not aggressive on the notably dry but not really austere finale. I very much like the '96 Oenothèque as it's a wonderfully graceful effort that possesses impeccable balance and a refinement that it doesn't always achieve. In terms of where it is in its evolution, '96 is going to be one of those timeless vintages that will still be with us 30 years hence as I believe that it will continue to age effortlessly. For my taste this gorgeous effort has arrived at its peak though it should continue to hold here for years to come. In sum, this is flat out great and one of the greatest Champagnes of the modern era. Producer note: It has never ceased to amaze me how Moët manages to produce what is reputed to be on the order of two million cases of Dom each time it's released while still delivering fantastic wine. Note that the "P" stands for Plénitude with the same connotation as its English equivalent. - Allen Meadows, Burghound

This has plenty of dried roses, rose hip and other very gently seductive perfumes on offer here such as wild cherries, some pepper, plenty of spices and pink, musky marshmallows. The autolysis is still very discreet, although the fruits have changed to another phase of more savory characters and are really delicate. This is undoubtedly a restrained Champagne on a very slow path of evolution. The palate's smoothly layered with the phenolics shaping it in the first phase of the palate, casting a long tube-like form. The core is composed of dried strawberries, some spiced cherries, some dried peaches and pink grapefruit to boot. It then gives way to fresh acidity as it delivers a really thrilling and mouth-watering finish with some toasty hazelnuts and flamed orange zest to close. Superb focus, and the vintage character of the acidity and length is stunning. Beautifully preserved in the cellars for some twenty-odd years. What a treat! Drink now and for another decade or more. This will age on cork very nicely. Truly a superb expression of Dom Perignon Rosé. - James Suckling

Dosage 6 g/l. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir (18% of which is red wine). Creamy, spicy palate and vibrant red fruit. Still needs a bit of time for the nose to develop. Long and gradual to finish with a savoury, salty flavour. - Richard Hemming MW, Jancis Robinson .com