1996 was notably one of the best vintages in the past 50 years, according to, CIVC, Champagne’s regulatory board, the only other vintage it compares to is 1928, years noted for both full ripeness and high acidity. The Dom Pérignon 1996 is simply stunning, a kaleidoscope of layered aromas: shortbread, golden apple, hazelnuts, lemon zest, smoke, and honeysuckle. Pale straw in the glass, with unbridled power, refinement, and impressive depth as well as a lively burst of minerality and chalk at the close. Tasted December 2014.
9.6 Points
