The 2009 Dom Perignon is one of the purest and most elegant that I have had of this famous tete de cuvee. I had an opportunity to taste a preview bottle back in March, and I was very impressed. The wine is much less yeasty than the 2006, and has rounder, riper fruit than the more mineral driven 2004. In an unusual move, but certainly a smart one, they decided to release this ahead of the 2008, which is still resting on its lees in Epernay!

Interestingly, Dom Pérignon released this before the 2008 bottling, given the 2009's rounder profile and more easygoing spirit. After tasting both, I applaud that decision. While 2008 is the more critically-celebrated vintage, this is exceptional as well, and (perhaps more importantly!) ready to drink, with apple and golden pear fruit shining through to a long finish. While it perhaps lacks the laser sharp core of 2008, this is still bright and wonderfully focused, with a hint of leesiness. Put ‘08 in the cellar and take this out to toast now!