Moët & Chandon Brut Champagne Dom Pérignon Legacy Edition 2008

Vivid acidity is a hallmark of the 2008 vintage in Champagne, contributing to the decision by Richard Geoffroy, Dom Pérignon’s chef de cave from 1990 to the close of 2018, to release the 2009 last year, ahead of this year’s release of the 2008. Cool conditions prevailed in Champagne during most of the 2008 growing season, but September’s bright and sunny weather during harvest rapidly turned what would have been an average vintage into one of the decade’s best. The Legacy Edition label honors Geoffroy’s pending retirement, including his name and that of his successor, Vincent Chaperon, on the label. The identical cuvée will be sold with the regular Dom Pérignon label beginning in 2019.

Tasting Note

There’s power to this graceful Champagne, with the vivid acidity swathed in a fine, creamy mousse and flavors of toasted brioche, kumquat, pastry cream, candied ginger and poached plum that dance across the palate. An underpinning of smoky mineral gains momentum on the lasting finish. Drink now through 2033.—Alison Napjus