Dom Pérignon Vintage 2018 brings together the prestige of one of Champagne’s most celebrated houses and the creative vision of British contemporary artist Damien Hirst. The 2018 growing season was marked by abundant sunshine and exceptional ripeness, producing a Champagne of generosity, depth, and remarkable balance. Presented in a distinctive artistic edition, this collaboration elevates an already exceptional vintage into a compelling expression of fine Champagne and contemporary design.
Blend: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the two varieties that define Dom Pérignon’s vintage Champagne. The house selects its fruit from distinguished vineyards across Champagne, blending the varieties to achieve a balance of richness, freshness, and aromatic complexity.
Tasting Notes: The bouquet unfolds with ripe apricot, nectarine, and citrus zest, accompanied by delicate floral nuances and subtle notes of brioche. As the wine opens, impressions of toasted almond, fresh herbs, and gentle spice add complexity. The palate is expansive yet beautifully controlled, revealing layers of orchard fruit and citrus carried by a fine, persistent mousse. A creamy mid-palate gives way to a long, vibrant finish marked by mineral freshness and elegant tension.
Structure: Medium- to full-bodied for Champagne, with generous fruit concentration, finely integrated acidity, and a refined, silky texture. The warmth of the 2018 vintage contributes breadth and ripeness, while the wine’s underlying freshness maintains definition and precision. Its balance of richness and energy makes it approachable in youth while providing the structure for graceful development in the cellar.
Drink Window: Enjoy now through approximately 2040, with the potential for additional complexity under ideal storage conditions. The wine offers immediate pleasure through its expressive fruit and polished texture, while further aging should reveal more developed notes of toast, nuts, and savory minerality.
Serving: Serve at approximately 46–50°F in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass or fine white-wine glass to appreciate its aromatic complexity and delicate mousse. Allow the wine to warm slightly in the glass rather than serving excessively cold, which can obscure its layered character.
The Damien Hirst collaboration adds a distinctive visual dimension to Dom Pérignon’s celebrated winemaking heritage, making this edition particularly appealing for collectors and sophisticated gifting. Pair with oysters, seared scallops, lobster, or delicately prepared poultry, or enjoy as the centerpiece of a memorable celebration.